Contraction Timer

Track your contractions easily and know when it's time

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When to Go to the Hospital

The timing for heading to the hospital depends significantly on whether this is your first baby or you've given birth before.

First-Time Mothers

Follow the 5-1-1 rule: contractions come every 5 minutes, last at least 1 minute each, and this pattern continues for at least 1 hour. First labors typically progress more slowly, so you usually have more time.

Second Baby or More

Follow the 4-1-1 rule or even 5-1-1 but head in sooner. Labor often progresses faster with subsequent pregnancies. Some healthcare providers recommend going when contractions are 7-10 minutes apart if you've had a fast labor before.

Always call your healthcare provider if your water breaks, you experience heavy bleeding, notice decreased fetal movement, or have any concerns.

What Are Contractions?

Contractions are the tightening and releasing of your uterine muscles that help push your baby down and open your cervix during labor. They're your body's natural way of preparing for delivery.

During a contraction, you'll feel your abdomen become hard and tight. True labor contractions start in your back and wrap around to your front, becoming progressively stronger, longer, and closer together over time.

Early contractions may feel like menstrual cramps or a dull backache. As labor progresses, they become more intense and harder to talk through.

Real Contractions vs. Braxton Hicks

Braxton Hicks contractions (also called "practice contractions") can start as early as the second trimester. Here's how to tell them apart:

True Labor Contractions

  • Follow a regular, predictable pattern
  • Get progressively closer together
  • Become longer and stronger over time
  • Don't stop with rest, hydration, or position changes
  • Usually start in your back and radiate to the front
  • May be accompanied by other labor signs (bloody show, water breaking)

Braxton Hicks Contractions

  • Irregular and unpredictable timing
  • Don't get closer together consistently
  • Usually stay mild and don't intensify
  • Often stop with rest, hydration, or changing positions
  • Usually felt only in the front of your abdomen
  • Uncomfortable but rarely painful
Tips for Timing Contractions
  • Start timing when your belly begins to tighten, and stop when it relaxes completely.
  • Time from the start of one contraction to the start of the next to measure how far apart they are.
  • Track at least 4-6 contractions to establish a pattern before making decisions.
  • Stay calm and breathe through each contraction. Deep, slow breaths can help manage discomfort.
  • If contractions stop or become irregular when you rest or move, they may be Braxton Hicks.

This app is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns about your pregnancy.