when do braxton hicks start

Braxton Hicks contractions can start as early as around 12 weeks into pregnancy but are more commonly felt starting in the second or third trimester. Some sources note they may be felt around 20 weeks or between 28 and 30 weeks. These contractions are irregular, usually mild, and considered practice contractions preparing the uterus for labor, but they do not cause cervical dilation or true labor. They often become more noticeable or frequent later in pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, but they are generally not painful and stop if the woman moves or changes position.