Prodromal Labor: More Than a “False Start”

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery unpacks one of the most misunderstood phases of birth: prodromal labor. Often labeled “false labor” and brushed off as insignificant, this early phase is anything but false. It’s real work — quiet, essential, and deeply physiological.Dr. Emily explores:The difference between pre-labor, prodromal labor, and early laborWhat’s really happening when labor starts and stopsThe role of cervical ripening (and why dilation isn’t the only thing that matters)The emotional and hormonal shifts that prepare the body for birthWhat you can do to support this phase — and what you don’t have toHer go-to tool for clarity: the Tub Hydration TestIf you’ve ever felt stuck, sent home, or unsure if your body is “doing enough,” this episode will help you see pre-labor through a new lens — one of trust, timing, and transformation.This episode is sponsored by The Final PunctuationVisit thefinalpunctuation.com