During which stage of labor do Braxton Hicks contractions typically occur?

Braxton Hicks contractions, often referred to as "practice contractions," typically occur during the prelabor stage of childbirth. This stage is characterized by the body preparing for the labor process, and Braxton Hicks contractions are a way for the uterus to tone and prepare itself. These contractions can start as early as the second trimester but become more noticeable in the weeks leading up to labor.

During prelabor, women may experience these irregular and often painless contractions that help to condition the uterus for the more intense contractions that will occur during actual labor. They are not indicative of true labor progression but serve an important role in the body's readiness for childbirth.

Active labor, transition, and postpartum are stages where contractions are more regular, intense, and directly related to the labor process and delivery of the baby, distinguishing them from the earlier prelabor phase where Braxton Hicks are more prevalent.