Birth Prep: What to Do When Labor Starts… Then Stops – Guidance from a Michiana Birth Doula

You’ve been timing contractions for hours, breathing through each wave, maybe even called your doula or your provider—and then… nothing. Everything slows down. Or even stops altogether. What just happened?

If this sounds familiar, welcome to the world of prodromal labor—the ultimate plot twist in the journey to active labor. As a birth doula supporting families across the Michiana area, I’ve seen this scenario play out leaving families feeling tired and confused. So, let’s unpack what’s going on and how to handle it like the calm, empowered birthing person you are.

What Is Prodromal Labor, Anyway?

Prodromal labor is like the body’s rehearsal dinner for birth. It often starts with regular, sometimes strong contractions that can feel very real—but don’t progress into full-blown active labor. This can last for hours… or happen on and off for days. Unlike early labor (which steadily builds toward dilation and birth), prodromal labor is often inconsistent and frustratingly cyclical.

The key difference? Prodromal labor contractions might be timeable and uncomfortable, but they usually don’t result in significant cervical change.

Why Does It Happen?

Prodromal labor is incredibly common, though not everyone experiences it. Some reasons behind it might include:

• Positioning of baby: If baby is in a less-than-optimal position (like posterior), your body may be working overtime to shift them before true labor begins.

• Physical or emotional stress: Your body needs to feel safe to birth. Anxiety, exhaustion, or high cortisol levels can sometimes stall progress.

• Your body’s rhythm: Sometimes, your body is just getting ready in stages. It’s not broken—it’s wise.

While it can feel discouraging, it’s not wasted effort. Your body is practicing. Your uterus is toning. And your baby is inching closer to “go time.”

What To Actually Do When Labor Starts… Then Stops

Let’s talk strategy. Here’s what I recommend to Michiana mamas riding the prodromal wave:

1. Don’t Panic—or Rush to the Hospital

Unless your provider says otherwise, there’s no need to rush in at the first sign of contractions. Prodromal labor can mimic the early signs of active labor, but staying home (if safe) allows you to rest, eat, and move freely.

2. Prioritize REST Over Progress

You are not on a timer. Your uterus is doing its warm-up. Try a warm bath, dim the lights, and lie on your left side. Think: dark, quiet, and cozy. Even if contractions continue, resting your mind and body is key. This phase requires energy conservation, not all-out effort.

3. Try the Miles Circuit or Rebozo Techniques

If baby’s position might be part of the reason labor is stalling, gentle positional work can help. The Miles Circuit or using a rebozo (under the guidance of your doula or provider) can encourage baby into a more ideal alignment.

4. Eat, Hydrate, and Breathe

This isn’t the time to restrict calories or skip meals—labor is an endurance event. Light, nourishing foods and plenty of water or electrolyte drinks can help your body stay strong and steady.

5. Reframe the Story

This isn’t failed labor. It’s pre-labor prep, and it’s doing important work. If you’re feeling discouraged, reach out to your support team. Your birth is still unfolding beautifully—even if it’s taking a few extra chapters to get there.

You’re Not Alone— Michiana Birth Doula Support Can Help

As a Michiana birth doula, I’m here to remind you that prodromal labor is not a sign something’s wrong. It’s a sign your body is doing exactly what it needs to do—even if it’s taking its sweet time.

Whether you’re in South Bend, Cassopolis, Elkhart, or anywhere in between, I’m here to walk this journey with you. Need a doula who gets the nuances of birth—and doesn’t ghost you when contractions pause? Let’s chat.

You’ve got this. Your body’s got this. And I’ve got your back.

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