Contractions just on left side at 38 weeks?

Question

Wondering how I will be able to tell between false and true labor.

Answer 1

It is always such a good question.  You don't want the baby to be in any harm; you don't want to be home when you should be in the hospital.  It's understood, but as a rule of thumb.....If you have to ask...you are not in labor.  If you can walk to your computer and type, you are not in labor.  Once you experience labor, you'll realize that what you are feeling now is nothing.  Your contractions should be strong, 5 minutes a part for an ENTIRE HOUR.  You would have to have 30 sharp contractions in an entire hour, not half an hour, not 5 minutes for 20 minutes then a gap for 10 minutes then 20 minutes more, etc.  It will have to go the entire hour.  Trust me, you'll know.  

Answer 2

You'll definitely be able to tell once the pain sets in.  If there is persistent pain right after another then you should get to the hospital right away.