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⏱️ Contraction Timer

A stopwatch for start and stop times. It does not tell you when to go to hospital. If you think you are in labour, call your maternity unit.

🚨 5-1-1 Rule Met: It may be time to go to the hospital!
0s Duration
-- Interval
Breathe In...

Follow the circle to regulate your breathing during the contraction.

Intensity: Preparing...
Actionable Guide (The 5-1-1 Rule):
  • 5: Contractions are 5 mins apart.
  • 1: Each lasts for 1 full minute.
  • 1: Pattern is consistent for 1 hour.
  • Urgent: If water breaks or you are bleeding, head to the hospital regardless of the 5-1-1 rule.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I start timing contractions?
Start timing when contractions become regular, painful, and are not relieved by drinking water, changing position, or resting. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), true labour contractions get longer, stronger, and closer together over time, whereas Braxton Hicks contractions do not follow a regular pattern.
What is the 5-1-1 rule?
The 5-1-1 rule is a widely used guideline: contractions are 5 minutes apart, each lasting 1 minute, and the pattern has been consistent for 1 full hour. This is the general trigger for first-time labours; ACOG and most hospital guidelines recommend calling your provider or heading to the hospital at this point. Second and later births may progress faster — ask your provider whether a 4-1-1 or earlier threshold applies to you.
What is the difference between duration and frequency?
Duration is how long a single contraction lasts — from the moment your uterus tightens until it fully relaxes. Frequency (interval) is measured from the start of one contraction to the start of the next. Both matter: duration measures intensity, frequency measures progression.
Are Braxton Hicks contractions real labor?
No. Braxton Hicks are “practice” contractions. Per the NHS and Mayo Clinic, they’re typically irregular, don’t get closer together, are usually painless (though can be uncomfortable), and often stop when you change position, walk, or hydrate. True labour contractions become progressively stronger, longer, and more frequent regardless of what you do.
When should I call my provider immediately, regardless of the 5-1-1 rule?
Contact your provider or go to the hospital immediately, without waiting for 5-1-1, if you experience any of the following (per ACOG guidance): your water breaks (rupture of membranes), any vaginal bleeding heavier than spotting, decreased or absent fetal movement, severe or continuous abdominal pain, severe headache with vision changes or upper-abdominal pain (possible preeclampsia), or if you are less than 37 weeks pregnant with regular contractions (possible preterm labour).

Medical Sources & Guidelines

This tool is designed as a self-tracking aid and educational reference. Guidance about labour signs, the 5-1-1 rule, and when to seek care on this page is drawn from major obstetric associations. For anything urgent or specific to your pregnancy, contact your midwife, obstetrician, or nearest maternity unit.

Not medical advice. This page provides general educational information about typical labour patterns. It does not diagnose, treat, or replace personalised care from a qualified maternity provider. If you are unsure whether you are in labour or have any concerning symptom, call your maternity unit — they would rather you check than wait.