[Lovingcountry]

Hey everyone,

I've been having some fairly intense braxton hicks (usually early in the morning when I first wake up). Not painful but VERY big tightenings.

I am just over 18wks.

I think in my previous pregnancy they started at about 25 -27 weeks (for my 3rd baby), can't remember for my 2nd baby and I think it was much, much later ie at least 35 weeks or so for my first baby.

This is obviously my 4th... is this a bit early?

I'm going to mention it to my doctor next week but thought I'd see if anyone else has had them this early.

[Princess.cranky....]

They started around the same time when I was PG with DD3. Midwifes said it's very common for BH to start early on when you have had a few kids. I guess our bodies know what to do. lol

[Rachiee]

I am 23 weeks with #2 and have been getting quite regular and strong BH for about 3 - 4 weeks now. I think with my 1st I had them from about 20 weeks.

[Juju38]

Mine started at 19 weeks with my first pregnancy. Went to term, no problems at all.

Haven't had the pleasure yet. Mine were quite debilitating at times.

[BabeBlossom]

First pregnancy they started at 20 weeks, this time 19. Quite a few mums from my DIG are already getting them, I'd say its within normal range.

[TarneeW]

With number 3 I starting getting BH's regularly and quite strong at 14 weeks. I panicked calling my midwife. I was told as long as it wasn't painful all was ok. Someone else suggested I needed to drink more fluid (for reasons I can't remember now).

I'm 16 weeks with number 4 and I think I have had some mild ones just recently, but still questioning it. Nothing like number 3, very strong early on making me nauseous every time.

Still check with your ob if you're concerned though

[Lovingcountry]

Thank you so much ladies... much reassured!

[Lovingcountry]

Tarnee, I just read that "Dehydration can make muscles spasm, bringing on a contraction, and is thought to be a factor in extended Braxton Hicks contractions. Adequate hydration can alleviate Braxton Hicks contractions.".

It also said that a full bladder can bring them on, which makes sense that they are fairly strong for me in the morning.

It also said that they can start (but not felt) as early as 6 weeks... interesting!

[bikingbubs]

mine started just before 20 weeks with #2 and I still went a week overdue.

[TarneeW]

Lovingcountry, that sounds right. I just couldn't remember why lol! I was initially very concerned but got used to it.

It's amazing how each pregnancy can be so different. My first pregnancy I didn't get them until towards my due date (that I noticed anyway). Second, I can't remember and this time only mildy noticing after such early BH with number 3.

Hope you can relax a little more now