A 28 year-old G1PO at 26 weeks of gestation is in for her regularly scheduled prenatal visit. The client tells the nurse that she is afraid that she is going into preterm labor because has been having contractions. "It feels like my belly gets all tight, then it goes away after a few seconds." When asked if they are painful, the client states, "no, it just gets tight but not painful." The nurse explains that these are likely Braxton Hicks contractions. What other information is important for the nurse to share?
A) This is a concerning finding. Braxton Hicks contractions will impede oxygen flow to the fetus.
B) Braxton Hicks contractions are simply a common discomfort of pregnancy and do not serve any particular function during pregnancy.
C) Braxton Hicks contractions enhance blood flow through the placenta and help strengthen the uterus. Cervical dilation does not result.
D) The contractions you are describing might cause cervical dilation if they continue.
