Contraction Timer
Tap to start, tap to stop. We'll track every contraction's duration and how far apart they are.
Current contraction
0:00
Tap the button when one starts — tap again when it ends.
When to head to the hospital
The classic 5-1-1 rule: contractions 5 minutes apart, lasting 1 minute, for 1 hour. Always trust your provider's specific instructions.
What the timer measures
Duration is how long a single contraction lasts — from the first tightening to the moment it eases. Frequency (or "interval") is the time from the start of one contraction to the start of the next. Most providers care about both numbers, plus how consistent they are.
The 5-1-1 rule
A common heuristic for when to head to the hospital with a first baby:
- 5 minutes apart, start to start
- 1 minute long, each one
- For at least 1 hour
For second and later babies, labor often progresses faster, so providers may suggest leaving earlier (7-1-1, or even just "when contractions are regular").
When to call no matter what
- Your water breaks (call even if contractions haven't started)
- Bright red or heavy bleeding
- You notice your baby moving less than usual
- Severe, constant abdominal pain (not just contractions)
- You're under 37 weeks and having regular contractions
Braxton Hicks vs. real contractions
Braxton Hicks (practice contractions) are usually:
- Irregular — they don't fall into a pattern
- Don't get longer or stronger
- Stop with rest, hydration, or a change of position
True labor contractions get longer, stronger, and closer together. Walking, lying down, drinking water — nothing makes them stop.
Frequently asked questions
What's the 5-1-1 rule?
A common rule of thumb for when to head to the hospital with a first baby: contractions are 5 minutes apart, last 1 minute, and have followed that pattern for 1 hour. For subsequent babies, providers often suggest 7-1-1 or even calling earlier.
How do I tell Braxton Hicks from real contractions?
Braxton Hicks are usually irregular, don't intensify, and often go away with rest, water, or a change of position. True labor contractions get stronger, longer, and closer together over time and don't stop with rest.
When should I call my provider regardless of timing?
Call right away if your water breaks, you have heavy bleeding, you notice decreased fetal movement, severe abdominal pain, or contractions before 37 weeks. When in doubt, call — they want you to.
Is the contraction history saved?
Yes — your contraction log is saved locally in your browser only. We never send it to our servers. Clearing your browser data will erase the history.
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