False labor at or after 37 completed weeks of gestation

This code signifies the presence of uterine contractions that are irregular, do not cause cervical change, and occur in a pregnant patient who has reached full term (37 weeks or more of gestation). These contractions are often painful but do not lead to actual labor progression. It represents a common physiological occurrence in late pregnancy.

Assign this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of "false labor," "Braxton Hicks contractions," or "prodromal labor" in a patient at 37 weeks gestation or beyond. The key is the absence of cervical dilation or effacement despite uterine activity. This code is typically used when the patient presents for evaluation of contractions but is subsequently discharged without admission for true labor.

• Ensure the gestational age is explicitly documented as 37 completed weeks or more.
• Differentiate from true labor (O42.x, O47.0x) where cervical changes are present.
• Do not use if the patient is admitted for induction of labor or if true labor is established.