Understanding Labor Pain: False vs. True Labor - Expert Advice

Question
I'VE BEEN HAVING WEIRD PAINS ALL DAY LONG.  IT FEELS LIKE MY STOMACH IS TIGHTENING UP AND ITS GIVING ME CRAMPS. ITS ONLY IN THE FRONT BUT SOMETIMES IN MY BACK.  BUT WHEN I STAND UP AND WALK AROUND THEY GO AWAY BUT IF I LAY DOWN THEY COME BACK. I JUST CAN'T GET COMFORTABLE SLEEPING BECAUSE THE BABY IS DOING THAT. I WAS JUST WONDERING IF IT WAS FALSE LABOR OR TRUE LABOR.  

Answer
Jennifer,

First of all, it you aren't 37 weeks or greater, you need to go to labor and delivery and get checked for pre-term labor.  If you are 37 weeks or greater, you could be in early labor.  True labor contractions get stronger and closer together as time goes on.  They don't stop when you lay down.  However, the contractions you are experiencing are great because they are getting your cervix ready for thinning and dilating.  I know it is uncomfortable, but it is a sign that things are progressing.  Good luck!