Braxton Hicks contractions are uterine contractions which occur towards the end of the pregnancy, and can be thought of as the uterus getting in some practice before going into labour. They are said to be painless (but only by male obstetricians). In fact the only difference between Braxton Hicks contractions and those of established labour are they don't last as long and they don't come as frequently. Resting quietly and breathing deeply will help the pain, and provide you with some practice too.