Definition

Noun: - A series of regularly recurring, rhythmic, and intensifying spasms of pain in the abdomen and back that occur during the process of childbirth, signaling the dilation of the cervix and the progression of labor.

Usage

• The term "labour pains" is used specifically in the context of childbirth. It refers to the natural, involuntary uterine contractions that a woman experiences to deliver a baby.
• It is typically used in the plural form ("pains").

Examples

Advanced Usage

• "False labour pains" (or Braxton Hicks contractions): Refers to irregular, usually less painful contractions that can occur before true labor begins. They are distinct from true "labour pains."
  • The contractions she felt last week turned out to be false labour pains.

Variants and Related Words

• Labor pains: The American English spelling variant (with 'labor' instead of 'labour').
• Contractions: A more clinical synonym often used interchangeably with "labour pains," though "contractions" can also refer to the tightening of any muscle.
• Birth pangs: A slightly more literary or archaic term with a similar meaning.

Synonyms

• Contractions
• Birth pains
• Parturition pains

Related Phrases

• In labour: The state of experiencing labour pains and the process of childbirth.
  • She was in labour for twelve hours.
• Onset of labour: The beginning of labour pains.
  • The onset of labour was marked by mild but regular pains.

Noun

1. a regularly recurrent spasm of pain that is characteristic of childbirth