Is frequent tightening and hardening of the abdomen at 37 weeks a sign that labor is about to begin?
Nov 14, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
If the abdomen gradually becomes tight and hard in a regular pattern, with intervals shortening from several minutes to just a few minutes apart, each lasting more than 30 seconds, and accompanied by lower abdominal pain, backache, or symptoms such as bloody show or rupture of membranes (water breaking), this may indicate the onset of labor—the signs that delivery is approaching. At this point, uterine contractions become stronger and more intense, so it is important to prepare for hospitalization promptly and proceed to the hospital to await childbirth.
Generally, if at 37 weeks the abdomen frequently feels tight and hard, especially when accompanied by regular pain and decreasing intervals between episodes, this may be a sign of approaching labor. However, if the tightening is occasional, irregular, and not associated with pain, it is likely due to false labor (Braxton Hicks contractions) rather than true labor. If in doubt, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider early. Detailed analysis is as follows:
If abdominal tightening becomes increasingly regular—occurring every few minutes (down from intervals of several minutes), lasting more than 30 seconds each time—and is accompanied by lower abdominal pain, backache, or signs such as bloody show or rupture of membranes, this likely indicates entry into the active phase of labor, signaling that delivery is near. At this stage, uterine contractions grow stronger, and prompt medical preparation for childbirth is necessary.
If abdominal tightening is irregular, with inconsistent intervals and short duration, without significant pain, and occurs only after physical activity or during periods of emotional stress—subsiding with rest—it is typically false labor. This is a normal manifestation of uterine sensitivity in late pregnancy, serving as preparation for actual labor, and does not indicate true onset of labor. Immediate medical attention is not required, but symptoms should be continuously monitored for changes.
When frequent abdominal tightening occurs at 37 weeks, it's important to record the frequency and duration of contractions and observe whether other signs of labor develop. If symptoms align with those of true labor, or if membrane rupture or heavy bloody show occurs, go to the hospital immediately.
