CircleBumpCheckedFilledMedicalBookmarkBookmarkTickBookmarkAddCheckBoxCheckBoxFilled

Labor Without Contractions?

Is it possible to go into labor without having any contractions?
save article
profile picture of Michele Hakakha, MD
Updated February 28, 2017
Hero Image

The very definition of going into labor, at least from a doctor’s point of view, is based on having uterine contractions. When these contractions occur at regular intervals, and are paired with noticeable changes in the cervix, you better bet your bump you’re about to have a baby. These labor pains not likely to be confused with a slight backache or indigestion from a late lunch. You’ll definitely know when you’re in labor unless you have an unusually high pain threshold — it’s really uncomfortable!

Not everyone has her water break (in fact, only about 10% of women do experience this on their own without any prior contractions) but almost everyone starts to feel a tightening in the belly, much like the Braxton Hicks contractions you’ve likely already been having through your third trimester. This tightening becomes a cramp that often wraps around to the lower back, and the cramps follow a predictable pattern (i.e. every 5-8 minutes), get closer and closer together, last longer and grow increasingly more intense. If you suspect you’re in labor, contact your doctor or health care provider, who will advise you when you need to come into the hospital or birthing center for your delivery.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

save article
ADVERTISEMENT

Next on Your Reading List

mother holding newborn baby after c section
What Is a Gentle C-Section—and Is It the Right Birth Plan for You?
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman deep breathing on couch at home
Recognizing the Signs of Labor—Plus, What Happens During Latent Labor
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman pushing during labor
How to Push During Labor
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
ADVERTISEMENT
pregnant woman sitting on birthing ball
How to Use a Birthing Ball in Pregnancy, Labor and Beyond
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
line of diverse pregnant woman holding their bellies
Black Moms More Likely to Undergo Unnecessary C-Sections, Study Shows
By Wyndi Kappes
woman's feet walking on curb
Does Curb Walking Help to Induce Labor?
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman touching breast
The Benefits and Risks of Trying Nipple Stimulation to Induce Labor
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
ADVERTISEMENT
pregnant woman walking outside
How to Naturally Induce Labor: Truths and Myths
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman sitting on birthing chair
What Is a Birthing Chair—and Should You Use One During Labor?
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman hooked up to monitors at hospital
When and How Is a Foley Bulb Used for Induction?
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
ADVERTISEMENT
mom looking at newborn baby with vernix caseosa
What Is Vernix Caseosa and How Does It Protect Baby?
Medically Reviewed by Dina DiMaggio Walters, MD
woman giving birth in hospital; baby crowning ring of fire
Ring of Fire: What Does Baby Crowning Actually Mean?
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
close up of pregnant belly at home
What You Need to Know About Losing Your Mucus Plug
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
ADVERTISEMENT
man driving pregnant woman in car to hospital for labor and delivery
When to Go to the Hospital for Labor
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman in labor at hospital
Pooping During Labor—Will It Happen? (and How to Get Over It)
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman receiving an epidural during labor and delivery in hospital
Epidural 101: How It Works
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
Newborn baby resting on mother's chest after labor and delivery
The Best Labor and Delivery Gowns, According to New Moms
By Christin Perry
ADVERTISEMENT
pregnant woman in hospital bed before delivery
What Happens at the Hospital When You Deliver
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
black pregnant woman in hospital bed for labor and delivery
These Are the Best Hospitals for Black Maternal Care, US News Reports
By Wyndi Kappes
Jason Kelce poses for a photo with Kylie Kelce during the Kelce documentary premiere at Suzanne Roberts Theater on September 8, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Jason Kelce Shares 4 Delivery Room Essentials All Dads Should Have
By Wyndi Kappes
ADVERTISEMENT
Article removed.
Article removed.
Name added. View Your List