Bloody show is not bleeding. Bleeding, which is red and resembles a period, must be reported to the doctor immediately. Clear, odorless fluid may leak or flow from the vagina. Once your water breaks, call the doctor immediately, whether or not you are having contractions. The doctor will want the baby delivered within 24 to 48 hours after the membranes rupture to protect the baby from infection.
False labor is a common occurrence.
Even women who already have had children can go to the hospital in false labor. If you go to the hospital in false labor, you should not feel embarrassed, upset or discouraged. Following are a few guidelines to help you distinguish between true and false labor. True labor Contractions have a regular pattern. They become longer, stronger and closer together.