Final answer:
Cervical dilation is the factor that distinguishes true labor from false labor.
Step-by-step explanation:
The factor that distinguishes true labor from false labor is that cervical dilation is evident in true labor. During true labor, the cervix gradually opens up and becomes dilated to allow the baby to pass through the birth canal. On the other hand, in false labor, the contractions may be regular but they do not lead to cervical dilation.
For example, if a pregnant woman's contractions stop when she walks around or progress only when she is in a side-lying position, it suggests she is experiencing false labor. Additionally, if contractions occur immediately after the membranes rupture, it can indicate true labor.
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