What is a characteristic of Braxton-Hicks contractions?

Braxton-Hicks contractions are a type of uterine contraction that can occur during pregnancy and are often referred to as "practice contractions." One of their defining characteristics is that they can be irregular and do not lead to labor. Unlike true labor contractions, which are generally consistent in timing and intensity and indicate the onset of labor, Braxton-Hicks contractions tend to vary in frequency and are typically less intense.

These contractions are a normal part of pregnancy and can occur any time after the second trimester, but their irregularity and lack of progression are key aspects that differentiate them from true labor contractions. They serve to prepare the uterus for the eventual labor process but do not signal that labor is impending. Fetal distress, regularity, or increasing strength of contractions would not be associated with Braxton-Hicks, making this characteristic essential for understanding the differences between various types of contractions experienced during pregnancy.