Uterine irritability can be caused from lack of sufficient hydration. Empty your bladder often and drink lots of fluid. Rest on your left side and avoid long periods of walking or standing. Sometimes these contractions can be stopped with Procardia (Nifedipine) or Terbutaline (Brethine). Sometimes women on these medications go on to deliver at term naturally and others have to be induced. True labor consists of contractions that are strong enough to change your cervix, otherwise they are considered braxton hicks contractions.