Final answer:
Braxton Hicks are irregular, less intense contractions that do not lead to cervical dilation and can cease with rest or hydration. True labor contractions are part of a positive feedback loop that progressively dilates and effaces the cervix, becoming more frequent and powerful over time, and do not stop with hydration or rest.
Step-by-step explanation:
The differences between Braxton Hicks and real labor contractions are notably marked by their intensity, frequency, and progression. Braxton Hicks are irregular contractions that can occur throughout pregnancy. They are often called "false labor" because they do not lead to cervical dilation and are generally less intense than true labor contractions. These contractions may stop with changes in position, hydration or rest.
On the other hand, true labor contractions occur in a positive feedback loop where uterine contractions stretch the cervix, leading to cervical dilation and effacement. They do not abate with hydration or rest, and they become more frequent and powerful over time.
During the onset of true labor, contractions may only occur every 3-30 minutes and last 20-40 seconds, but gradually they increase in frequency to occur every 1.5-2 minutes and last about a minute. True labor contractions are also associated with cervical dilation and the release of oxytocin, which leads to more powerful uterine contractions, further dilating and effacing the cervix. In contrast, Braxton Hicks contractions are not productive in terms of progressing labor; they neither dilate nor efface the cervix significantly.