What characteristic is typical of true labor contractions?

True labor contractions are characterized by their regularity and increasing intensity. This pattern indicates that the body is preparing for delivery. As true labor progresses, contractions typically become more frequent, organized, and stronger, which helps the cervix to dilate and efface in preparation for the birth of the baby.

The regularity of these contractions signifies that they are a part of the active labor process, as opposed to Braxton Hicks contractions, which are often irregular and do not lead to cervical changes. Additionally, the increasing intensity of the contractions is a key indicator that labor is advancing and that the body is engaging in the necessary physiological processes to facilitate childbirth. This pattern can help healthcare providers assess the stage of labor a patient is in and whether they need to prepare for delivery.

In contrast, the other options describe characteristics that do not align with true labor. For instance, contractions that are irregular and sporadic or those that occur only at night would suggest false labor or early labor. Painless and infrequent contractions are also typical of Braxton Hicks contractions, rather than true labor, since real labor involves discomfort and a buildup of intensity.