Braxton Hicks contractions, irregular uterine contractions unassociated with cervical effacement and dilation. These contractions are initially painless, but in the third trimester Braxton Hicks contractions may intermittently become rhythmic, relatively close together, and painful. They often resolve with hydration and ambulation. It may be difficult to distinguish Braxton Hicks contractions from true labor pains by history alone. See preterm contractions, false labor.
