Which description best characterizes true contractions?

• A. begin irregularly but become regular and predictable
• B. felt first in lower back and sweep around to the abdomen in a wave
• C. increase in duration, frequency, and intensity
• D. begin and remain irregular

Answer: (C)

True labor contractions are defined by a pattern that becomes regular and then intensifies over time. As labor progresses, each contraction lasts longer (increased duration), happens more often (increased frequency), and feels stronger (increased intensity). This escalating sequence is what drives cervical dilation and the progression toward delivery. In contrast, false contractions tend to be irregular, can be felt in different areas, and don’t steadily increase in strength or lead to cervical changes. So the description that best fits true contractions is the one that notes increasing duration, increasing frequency, and increasing intensity, reflecting the advancing labor process.