Braxton Hicks vs early labour — anyone experienced this?

Hi everyone,
I’m wondering if anyone has experienced going into labour with only Braxton Hicks contractions — so more like discomfort or tightening rather than actual pain — and not realising that labour had started.
I’m currently 39+3 and had a sweep yesterday. I’m already 1 cm dilated, baby is 1/5 engaged, and the midwife said she could feel the baby’s head. My cervix is soft and short, so all the signs seem positive — it feels like we’re just waiting for baby to arrive now.
During my appointment, the midwife also noticed I was having 2–3 contractions (just tightening in my bump) without any pain. She mentioned that some women can go into labour without realising it and advised me to keep an eye on them. She even suggested that what I’ve been feeling so far might be what’s helped me get to this stage.
So I’d love to hear if anyone has had a similar experience — I know it’s not impossible!
Thank you 😊

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