I am having contractions that are strong and painful, but then go away! What can I take to start active labor?

There is nothing that you can take. The only thing that you can do that is safe for you and the baby, is to walk, have and try nipple stimulation. The longer the baby stays in the womb though, the more developed the baby will be. I know it stinks, I was 2 weeks late, but remember it will be over soon. You will not be in labor or pregers forever.