how early can braxton hicks start

Braxton Hicks contractions can start as early as the second trimester of pregnancy, with the uterus potentially beginning these muscle "practice" contractions as early as six weeks, but they are usually not felt until later. Most commonly, people begin to notice Braxton Hicks contractions around the midpoint of pregnancy (around 16 to 20 weeks) and they become more frequent in the third trimester. These contractions are irregular, usually not painful, and serve as the body's way of preparing for true labor. They can be triggered by factors like dehydration, a full bladder, physical activity, or even emotional stress and typically do not indicate that labor is starting.