Contraction Timer
Free contraction timer to track labor contractions. Log duration and intervals, see averages, and know when to go to the hospital with the 5-1-1 rule.
👶 How to use:Tap "Contraction Started" when a contraction begins, and "Contraction Ended" when it stops. The timer tracks duration, intervals, and averages. Look for the 5-1-1 pattern: contractions 5 minutes apart, lasting 1 minute, for 1 hour.
Tap when a contraction begins
About the contraction timer
A contraction timer tracks the duration of each contraction (start to end) and the frequency (start of one to start of the next). Hospital admission criteria typically use the 5-1-1 rule: contractions 5 minutes apart, lasting 1 minute, for at least 1 hour. Tracking accurately replaces guesswork in active labor.
Benefits
- ·Tracks contraction duration and frequency in real time
- ·Helps identify when to call the hospital or birth center
- ·Calculates the average over recent contractions
- ·Provides a clear history to share with your provider
- ·Distinguishes Braxton Hicks from active labor
How it works
Tap "Start" when a contraction begins; tap again when it ends. The timer logs duration. The next "Start" tap also captures the interval (start-to-start frequency) — the two numbers most providers ask about over the phone.
The 5-1-1 rule (5 minutes apart, 1 minute long, for 1 hour) is the most common first-time-mom hospital admission guideline in the U.S. The 4-1-1 variant is sometimes used if you live close to the hospital. Always follow your specific provider's guidance over any general rule.
Who uses the contraction timer
Pregnant women in late third trimester, doulas tracking client labor patterns, partners supporting laboring people, and labor-and-delivery nurses confirming admission criteria.
Contractions are consistently 5 minutes apart, measured from the start of one to the start of the next.
Each contraction lasts about 1 minute (60 seconds) from start to finish.
This pattern has been consistent for at least 1 hour. Time to call your provider or head to the hospital.
Contractions every 5-20 minutes, lasting 30-60 seconds. This can last hours or even days. Rest, eat light meals, stay hydrated, and time your contractions.
Contractions every 3-5 minutes, lasting 45-60 seconds. This is when most providers advise going to the hospital. Focus on breathing techniques.
Contractions every 2-3 minutes, lasting 60-90 seconds. The most intense phase, but also the shortest. You should already be at the hospital.
Frequently asked questions
When should I go to the hospital?
Follow the 5-1-1 rule: when contractions are 5 minutes apart, lasting 1 minute each, for at least 1 hour. However, always follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions, as they may differ based on your situation.
How do I time contractions?
Tap the button when a contraction begins and again when it ends. Duration measures how long each contraction lasts. Interval (or frequency) measures the time from the start of one contraction to the start of the next.
What's the difference between real and Braxton Hicks contractions?
Real labor contractions become more frequent, longer, and stronger over time — they follow a pattern. Braxton Hicks (practice contractions) are irregular, don't get closer together, and usually stop when you change positions or rest.