You may be having false labour if late in your pregnancy you experience painless contractions, few and far between, called 'Braxton Hicks contractions'. Braxton Hicks contractions can occur at any time in your pregnancy. Sometimes in late pregnancy, they can become stronger, even painful. Unlike with real contractions, however, the cervix doesn't change. Your midwife can check this with a vaginal inspection.
Attribution: Avallain