If you’re experiencing contractions that come and go, sometimes for hours or even days, without much visible change—welcome to prodromal labor. And before we go any further, let’s get one very important thing out of the way: this is normal.

Prodromal labor can feel like a cruel trick. The contractions might be regular. They might be strong. You might find yourself timing them, wondering if this is it. And then? They slow down. They stop. They fizzle out. You’re left exhausted, emotional, and maybe even a little defeated.

But here’s the truth: just because there’s no obvious external change doesn’t mean nothing is happening.

What Is Prodromal Labor?

Prodromal labor is a phase that can occur before “active” labor begins. The contractions may be real and consistent, but they don’t lead to immediate cervical dilation like active labor contractions do. It’s sometimes called “false labor,” but that term is misleading—because there’s nothing false about what your body is doing.

Your body is…

• Positioning your baby
• Softening and preparing your cervix
• Toning your uterus
• Helping your hormones shift and regulate

This is labor preparation in motion. It’s your body working with your baby to get ready for birth.

You’re Not Doing Anything Wrong

It’s easy to start second-guessing yourself. Should you be walking more? Resting more? Eating differently? Did you miss the window? Should you be getting induced?

But I want to say this as clearly as I can: you are not doing anything wrong. Your body knows what it’s doing, even if the timeline doesn’t match up with what you expected.

Prodromal labor is frustrating—emotionally, physically, and mentally. But it’s not a sign that something is broken. It doesn’t mean your body isn’t doing its job. It’s not wasted time. It’s your unique labor story beginning to unfold.

Do You Have to Be Induced?

Short answer: No.

Unless there’s a true medical indication, you don’t have to induce just because labor seems to be “starting and stopping.” Prodromal labor often leads into spontaneous labor when the time is right– Active labor may even be a bit quicker following prodromal labor. Your body may be taking longer, but that doesn’t mean it needs to be rushed.

Sometimes, giving your body space—and giving yourself permission to rest—is the most powerful thing you can do.

How to Cope with Prodromal Labor

• Rest when you can. Even if contractions are uncomfortable, try to nap, relax, or at least lie down and take pressure off your body.
• Nourish yourself. Hydration and nutrient-rich snacks can make a big difference in your energy and mood.
• Lean on your support team. Talk to your doula, your partner, or a trusted friend. You don’t have to go through this part alone.
• Change your scenery. A bath, a walk outside, a favorite movie—sometimes a little shift can help emotionally reset.
• Get your mind in a good space. It’s easy to become hyper-focused on tracking contractions or overanalyzing every sensation. But sometimes that mental tension can keep your body from fully relaxing into labor. Give yourself permission to let go of the timeline. Trust that your body knows when and how to move forward. Let your mind rest, so your body can open.
• Trust your body. This part is hard, but it’s not forever. Your body is doing important work.

You’re Doing So Much More Than You Think

Even if there’s no dramatic movie-scene moment, even if you’re still waiting for things to “really start”—you are already in it. And you are doing beautifully.

Prodromal labor is labor. It matters. It’s real. And it’s a sign that your body is moving in the right direction.

Trust that. Trust your body.