Prodromal labor (pronounced pro-DROH-mull) is a variation of early labor.⁹ The contractions experienced during prodromal labor can feel more intense and consistent than Braxton Hicks contractions.^1,2 Unlike Braxton Hicks, which are usually mild, irregular, and often relieved with rest, hydration, or a warm bath, prodromal labor contractions may feel strong and disruptive.^1,3

During prodromal labor, contractions can become longer, stronger, and closer together, yet your cervix does not dilate, which is what distinguishes it from active labor.^1,4 While this can be frustrating and exhausting, it is often your body’s way of preparing for true labor, which may be approaching soon.¹ In this article, we’ll walk through common symptoms of prodromal labor and practical ways to manage discomfort while you wait for active labor to begin.

Symptoms of Prodromal Labor

Prodromal labor symptoms can feel similar to true labor, but there are key differences to watch for. Here are the symptoms of prodromal labor that you may experience:^1,2,6

• Difficulty sleeping because of contractions
• Contractions that continue despite rest, hydration, and a warm shower or bath
• Lack of cervical dilation
• Contractions that are getting longer and closer together, but without cervical dilation
• Your contractions begin to take a pattern, but then dissipate

Related: What To Do in Early Labor

Best Ways To Manage Prodromal Labor

Managing prodromal labor will look different from mother to mother, but professionals frequently recommend the suggestions below to women who experience this type of contraction. However, if life with your prodromal contractions feels unbearable, talk to your provider about taking medicine to help cope with your discomfort.⁴ Here are some other ways to manage your prodromal labor:

1. Talk to Your Birthing Professional

Tell your doctor, naturopath, or midwife about the contractions you’re experiencing and ask for their advice.

Many of the strategies below focus on relaxation, comfort, and emotional support, which can help conserve energy while your body prepares for labor.

2. Relax

Ask your partner or friend to give you a massage to help you relax. Or visit a professional massage therapist who’s certified in prenatal massage.¹⁰

Related: Signs of Labor: How To Know When Baby Is Coming

3. Try Acupuncture

Visit an acupuncturist who has experience and certification to work with pregnant women.¹⁰

4. Get Your Stretch On

Prenatal Yoga and gentle stretching can help ease muscle tension and soreness associated with prodromal labor symptoms.²

5. Have a Soak

A warm bath or shower with added essential oils, such as peppermint and lavender, can help ease tension.^1,2,7,8 (Just be sure to check with your birth professional before using essential oils!) However, if your contractions are strong, they may not significantly ease the pain.

6. Try a Different Position

Try changing positions regularly until you find one that feels most comfortable. Examples include lying on your side, sitting in a soft armchair, standing with support, or gently bouncing on a yoga or birthing ball.⁶

Related: Best Positions for Early Labor

7. Practice Birthing Techniques

When prodromal labor begins, it’s also a great opportunity to practice breathing techniques that you’ll use during the delivery process. Try meditating or working on your out-breath technique, such as the one you might have learned in childbirth class, from your doctor or midwife, or online.^1,2,6

8. Fill Your Belly

Eat high-power, high-protein foods.¹⁰ You may experience vomiting with prodromal labor symptoms — I know I did with my first child. However, if you aren’t nauseous, this can be a great time to indulge in a hearty meal to power up for the upcoming birth. Or, you can have small snacks.^1,2 For instance, try eating dried fruit, almonds, nuts, granola bars, a bowl of oatmeal, scrambled eggs, a plant-based milkshake, or seaweed snacks.

Related: Foods To Eat (And Not Eat) in Early Labor

9. Sing and Dance

Sometimes, playing upbeat, happy, or otherwise soothing music can help mothers get through prodromal labor symptoms.^1,2,9 You can gently walk and listen on headphones, dance gently and safely in your living room, or lie down and turn on your speakers.^1,6

10. Talk to Your Tribe

Calling and speaking with a friend, loved one, healthcare provider, doula, or therapist can be a great way to process the emotional stress of prodromal labor. Knowing you’re loved and supported by the people around you may help give you strength, motivation, and new strategies to get through the final days leading up to childbirth.

11. Stay Hydrated

Stay hydrated with water or coconut water.^1,2,10 I drank a lot of coconut water before and after my pregnancies, which helped me stay hydrated and full of electrolytes. Plus, it tasted great! A few other power drinks for pregnancy and delivery include:^1,10

• Orange juice
• Pregnancy-safe tea with coconut milk and honey
• Electrolyte drinks (free of artificial ingredients)
• Bone broth
• Green drinks (fresh vegetables and fruit smoothies or juices)

12. Try Positive Visualization

You can do this simply by closing your eyes and imagining a picture of you and your baby or your partner with your baby after they’re born. You can also journal a positive visualization with words or make a picture.

Remember, prodromal labor is often a sign that your body is preparing for birth.¹ If you’re unsure whether what you’re experiencing is prodromal labor or active labor, reach out to your healthcare provider. They can help assess what’s happening and guide you on next steps. You’re getting closer to meeting your baby, and you’re doing a great job.

Even though prodromal labor can feel discouraging, it often means your body is doing important work behind the scenes.¹