What is the term for the onset of contractions in true labor?

The onset of contractions in true labor is commonly referred to as "initiation," which is a fitting term because it marks the beginning of the labor process. This is the stage when the body begins to prepare for childbirth, and rhythmic contractions that lead to cervical changes start to occur. The terminology captures the essence that labor has commenced, distinguishing it from other phases that occur later in the labor process.

In contrast, the latent phase, active phase, and transition phase describe different stages of labor that follow initiation. The latent phase is characterized by early contractions that are typically irregular and may not lead to rapid changes in cervical dilation. The active phase marks a time of more intense and regular contractions, usually associated with significant cervical dilation. The transition phase is the period just before the delivery where contractions can become particularly strong and closely spaced. These phases provide important context for understanding the progression of labor and delivery, but initiation is the term that specifically identifies the start of true labor.