The perinatal nurse describes prelabor or Braxton Hicks contractions to the prenatal class ...

ANS: B, D
As the pregnancy approaches term, most women become more aware of irregular contractions called Braxton Hicks contractions. As the contractions increase in frequency (they may occur as often as every 10 to 20 minutes), they may be associated with increased discomfort. Braxton Hicks contractions are usually felt in the abdomen or groin region, and patients may mistake them for true labor. It is believed that these contractions contribute to the preparation of the cervix and uterus for the advent of true labor. However, Braxton Hicks contractions do not lead to dilation or effacement of the cervix, and therefore are often termed false labor.