In the case of true labor, how do the intervals between contractions change?

In true labor, the intervals between contractions exhibit a distinct pattern characterized by a progressive shortening over time. As labor progresses, contractions become more frequent and intense. Initially, contractions may be spaced farther apart, but as the labor intensifies, typically leading up to the delivery, the time between them decreases. This change is essential as it indicates that the body is actively working toward childbirth, with the uterus contracting more frequently to help dilate the cervix.

Understanding the nature of contractions during true labor is crucial for identifying the difference between true labor and false labor (Braxton Hicks contractions), where the timing of contractions does not follow this pattern. In false labor, contractions may remain irregular and do not have the same consistent progression toward delivery that is observed in true labor.