Contraction Timer
Track your contractions during labor. Get alerted when the 5-1-1 rule is met so you know when it's time to head to the hospital.
Contractions
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Avg Duration
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Avg Interval
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Contraction Log
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Disclaimer
This tool is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Every labor is different. Follow your doctor's or midwife's specific instructions about when to go to the hospital.
How to Use the Contraction Timer
Start timing when you feel a contraction begin, stop when it ends. Repeat for each contraction. Use during active labor to track whether contractions are getting closer together, longer, and stronger. The timer automatically calculates averages and alerts you when the 5-1-1 rule is met.
The 5-1-1 Rule Explained
Contractions are 5 minutes apart (interval between the start of one contraction to the start of the next), lasting at least 1 minute each, for at least 1 hour consistently. This is generally when doctors recommend heading to the hospital, but always follow your doctor's specific instructions.
What Are Braxton Hicks?
Braxton Hicks are "practice" contractions — irregular, don't intensify over time, and often go away with movement or hydration. Real labor contractions get closer together, longer, and stronger regardless of what you do. If you're unsure, timing them is the best way to tell the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start timing contractions?
Start when contractions become regular — roughly 10 minutes apart. Time them to track whether they're getting closer, longer, and stronger. Most doctors say to call when following the 5-1-1 rule.
How long should contractions last?
Early labor: 30–45 seconds, 15–20 minutes apart. Active labor: 45–60 seconds, 3–5 minutes apart. Transition: 60–90 seconds, 2–3 minutes apart. As labor progresses, contractions become longer, stronger, and closer together.
What is the 5-1-1 rule?
Contractions 5 minutes apart (from start of one to start of next), lasting at least 1 minute each, for at least 1 hour. This is a common guideline for when to go to the hospital, but always follow your OB's specific advice — some doctors use a 4-1-1 or 3-1-1 rule depending on your situation.
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