Inpatient Obstetric Nurse Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Prep Guide

During the latent phase of labor, contractions are typically characterized by being mild and spaced apart. This phase generally represents the early stages of labor where the cervix begins to efface and dilate, but significant progress has not yet been made. Contractions at this stage usually feel like menstrual cramps or mild discomfort, rather than severe pain. This moderate intensity, along with their infrequent occurrence—often anywhere from 5 to 30 minutes apart—allows many women to manage them at home before deciding to go to the hospital or birthing center.

In contrast, contractions that are very painful and frequent are more indicative of the active phase of labor, where the cervix dilates more rapidly and discomfort increases. Contractions that last only a few seconds would not provide enough time for the cervix to make significant changes, as effective contractions typically last around 30 to 90 seconds. While some contractions may be less intense during the latent phase, they do not generally require immediate medical attention unless there are concerning symptoms, such as heavy bleeding or severe pain, that could indicate complications.