false labor

labor /la·bor/ (la´ber) [L.] the function of the female by which the infant is expelled through the vagina to the outside world: the first stage begins with onset of regular uterine contractions and ends when the os is completely dilated and flush with the vagina; the second extends from the end of the first stage until the expulsion of the infant is completed; the third extends from expulsion of the infant until the placenta and membranes are expelled; the fourth denotes the hour or two after delivery, when uterine tone is established.

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artificial labor  induced l.

dry labor  that in which the amniotic fluid escapes before the onset of uterine contractions.

false labor  see under pain.

induced labor  that brought on by mechanical or other extraneous means, usually by the intravenous infusion of oxytocin.

missed labor  that in which contractions begin and then cease, the fetus being retained for weeks or months.

postmature labor , postponed labor that occurring two weeks or more after the expected date of confinement.

precipitate labor  that occurring with undue rapidity.

premature labor  expulsion of a viable infant before the normal end of gestation; usually applied to interruption of pregnancy between the twenty-eighth and thirty-seventh week.

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false labor.

See preterm contractions.

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false labor

Obstetrics Parturition that results from disordered uterine action where regular painful contractions are not accompanied by effacement or dilation of the cervix that may either cease or be followed by onset of true labor. Cf Labor.