Which assessment finding indicates the presence of true labor?

True labor is characterized by specific patterns in contractions and changes in the cervix. The correct choice illustrates that true labor involves longer-duration contractions with a shortened interval, which signifies that the body is preparing for childbirth. In true labor, contractions typically become more frequent, intense, and regular over time, leading to cervical changes, including dilation and effacement.

This option reflects the physiological changes typically seen as labor progresses. As the contractions intensify, the intervals decrease, indicating that the labor is advancing, which is a critical aspect of true labor. Monitoring these characteristics helps healthcare providers determine the appropriate care for the mother and the fetus.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the definitions or characteristics of true labor. An undilated cervix without effacement indicates that labor has not started or is in false labor. Irregular intervals between contractions suggest that the contractions are not following the consistent pattern expected in true labor, which often have increasing regularity. Decreased intensity of contractions might indicate that labor is not progressing and could suggest a stall or even false labor.