When during pregnancy do Braxton Hicks contractions start?

Braxton Hicks contractions are period uterine contractions that do not bring on labor and the birth of your baby they happen through most of every woman's pregnancy. Everyone who has had a baby knows all too well what we're talking about here. During a Braxton Hicks contraction, your uterus will tense up and your whole abdomen will feel hard. These are totally painless contractions, and although they are certainly very noticeable, they do usually go away when you change positions. When during pregnancy do Braxton Hicks contractions start?

Believe it or not, Braxton Hicks contractions can start as early as six weeks into your pregnancy! You will not feel them immediately though, as your uterus (and your baby) is still tiny and tucked safely into your abdominal cavity. After you are about half way through your second trimester of pregnancy, your baby will have grown a lot and your uterus will have reached your belly button. It is at around this time that Braxton Hicks contractions start becoming noticeable. Apparently, there are some expectant moms who never notice Braxton Hicks Contractions, but I have never personally met any of them, and I think this is a very rare occurrence.

As you go into your third trimester, you are likely to be experiencing a whole lot more "practice contractions". It is hardly surprising that these contractions are also simply known as "hard tummies" in some languages, because that is exactly what they do to you. When will you get Braxton Hicks contractions? Many women notice an increase when they are really physically active, lift heavy things, have sexual intercourse, or an orgasm. Braxton Hicks contractions do have a tendency to end quickly, and often clear up when you change positions. Try sitting down if you were standing, or rolling over to a different side during the night.