Contraction Timer
Track your contractions with one tap. This timer monitors duration, frequency, and the 5-1-1 rule so you know when it may be time to head to the hospital. Works offline, no account needed.
Tap again when it ends.
How to Time Contractions
Contractions are the rhythmic tightening and releasing of your uterus that help move your baby down the birth canal during labor. Timing them accurately helps you and your healthcare provider understand how labor is progressing and when it may be time to head to the hospital or birthing center.
How to use this contraction timer: Press the big button when you feel a contraction start. Press it again when the contraction ends. The timer automatically tracks each contraction's duration, the frequency between contractions, and running averages to help you spot patterns.
The 5-1-1 Rule: When to Go to the Hospital
The 5-1-1 rule is the most widely recommended guideline for knowing when active labor has begun. It means your contractions are coming every 5 minutes or less (measured from the start of one contraction to the start of the next), each contraction lasts at least 1 minute, and this pattern has continued for at least 1 hour. This contraction counter automatically monitors for this pattern and displays an alert when the criteria are met.
Some providers use the 4-1-1 rule or even the 3-1-1 rule depending on your situation — for example, if you live far from the hospital, have a history of fast deliveries, or are Group B Strep positive. Always discuss your specific plan with your provider ahead of time.
Stages of Labor Contractions
Understanding the stages of labor can help you interpret your contraction pattern:
- Early labor: Contractions last 30 to 45 seconds and come every 5 to 30 minutes. This phase can last hours or even days for first-time mothers. You can usually stay home during this stage.
- Active labor: Contractions intensify to 45 to 60 seconds each, coming every 3 to 5 minutes. This is typically when you should head to the hospital (the 5-1-1 rule targets this transition).
- Transition: The most intense phase, with contractions lasting 60 to 90 seconds and coming every 2 to 3 minutes. Transition is usually the shortest phase and means delivery is near.
Tips for Timing Contractions
- Use one hand: This timer is designed for one-thumb operation, because during labor you need simplicity. One tap starts, one tap stops.
- Track at least an hour: A handful of contractions is not enough to establish a pattern. Aim for at least an hour of data before making decisions.
- Share with your provider: Use the export feature to copy or download your contraction log as a text file. Bring it to the hospital or share it over the phone so your provider can see your pattern at a glance.
- Trust your instincts: The 5-1-1 rule is a guideline, not an absolute rule. If something feels wrong — heavy bleeding, sudden severe pain, decreased fetal movement, or your water breaks — contact your provider immediately regardless of your contraction pattern.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I go to the hospital during labor?
Most healthcare providers recommend following the 5-1-1 rule: head to the hospital when your contractions come every 5 minutes, last at least 1 minute each, and this pattern has continued for at least 1 hour. Always call your provider if you are unsure, if your water breaks, or if you experience heavy bleeding.
What is the 5-1-1 rule for contractions?
The 5-1-1 rule is a widely used guideline to help determine when active labor has begun. It means your contractions are 5 minutes apart (measured from the start of one to the start of the next), lasting at least 1 minute each, and this pattern has persisted for at least 1 hour. This contraction timer automatically checks for this pattern and alerts you when it is met.
How do I time contractions accurately?
Start timing when you feel the tightening begin and stop when the contraction fully relaxes. Note the duration (how long the contraction lasts) and the frequency (time from the start of one contraction to the start of the next). This timer calculates both automatically — just tap when a contraction starts and tap again when it ends.
How long do contractions last in each stage of labor?
Early labor contractions typically last 30 to 45 seconds and come every 5 to 30 minutes. Active labor contractions last 45 to 60 seconds and come every 3 to 5 minutes. Transition contractions can last 60 to 90 seconds and come every 2 to 3 minutes. Every labor is different, so track your own pattern and share it with your provider.
What is the difference between real contractions and Braxton Hicks?
Braxton Hicks contractions (also called practice contractions) are irregular, usually painless, and do not increase in frequency or intensity over time. Real labor contractions follow a progressively regular pattern, get stronger and closer together, and do not go away when you change positions or rest. If contractions become regular and increasingly intense, it is likely real labor.
Does this contraction timer save my data?
Yes. Your contraction data is saved in your browser's local storage, so it persists even if you close the page or lose connection. No data leaves your device — everything stays private on your phone. You can also export your contraction log as a text file to share with your healthcare provider.