Contraction Timer
Track the duration and frequency of your contractions to know when it's time to head to the hospital. Our easy-to-use timer helps you monitor labor progression.
⚠️ Time to Consider Going to the Hospital
Your contractions are following the 5-1-1 rule: Coming every 5 minutes or less, lasting 1 minute or longer, for at least 1 hour. Contact your healthcare provider!
Contraction Pattern
Visual representation of your contraction duration and frequency
Contraction History
No contractions recorded yet.
Press START when your contraction begins.
How to Use the Contraction Timer
- Press START when you feel a contraction beginning
- Press STOP when the contraction completely ends
- The timer automatically calculates duration and frequency
- Continue timing contractions to establish a pattern
- Watch for the 5-1-1 pattern or your provider's specific instructions
Understanding Contraction Patterns
Early Labor
- Contractions: 30-45 seconds long
- Frequency: 5-30 minutes apart
- Intensity: Mild to moderate
- What to do: Rest, eat light meals, stay hydrated
Active Labor
- Contractions: 45-60 seconds long
- Frequency: 3-5 minutes apart
- Intensity: Strong and regular
- What to do: Head to hospital/birth center
Transition
- Contractions: 60-90 seconds long
- Frequency: 2-3 minutes apart
- Intensity: Very strong
- What to do: You should already be at your birth location
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between Braxton Hicks and real contractions?
Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular, don't get closer together, and often stop with rest or hydration. Real labor contractions are regular, get progressively closer together and stronger, and don't stop with position changes or rest.
Should I time every single contraction?
In early labor, time contractions periodically (every hour or so) to track patterns. As they become more regular and intense, time them more consistently. You don't need to time every single one unless you're establishing whether you're in active labor.
What if my contractions don't follow the 5-1-1 rule?
Every labor is different. Some women have longer contractions less frequently, while others have shorter, more frequent ones. Always follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions and trust your instincts. When in doubt, call your provider.
Can I save my contraction data?
Yes! Use the Export button to save your contraction log. This can be helpful to share with your healthcare provider or to keep for your records. The data includes timing, duration, and frequency information.