Contraction Timer
Time labour contractions: length, frequency and a 5-1-1 check.
About this tool
Tap Start when a contraction begins and Stop when it ends. The timer records each contraction's length and the time since the previous one started, shows averages for the last hour, and flags when the pattern matches the 5-1-1 rule or 3 contractions in 10 minutes. Copy summary gives a one-line update to read out when you phone the maternity unit.
How to time contractions
Midwives describe contractions by two numbers. The length is how long each one lasts from start to finish. The frequency is how often they come, measured from the start of one contraction to the start of the next, not from the end. Early labour contractions are often irregular, 5 to 20 minutes apart and 30 to 45 seconds long. As labour establishes, they become regular, longer and closer together. Many hospitals in the US use the 5-1-1 rule (contractions about every 5 minutes, lasting about 1 minute, for at least 1 hour) as the time to call. Many UK units suggest calling when contractions are regular and strong, often around 3 in 10 minutes, especially for a first baby. Your own unit's advice comes first, and it may be earlier if you live far away or this isn't your first baby. Braxton Hicks "practice" contractions tend to stay irregular and ease with rest or a change of position. Important: this is a timer, not medical advice. Call your midwife or maternity unit straight away if your waters break, you have bleeding, your baby moves less than usual, you're in severe or constant pain, you feel unwell, or you're under 37 weeks. The session is saved in this browser so a reload doesn't lose it. The pregnancy due date calculator, the timer and the baby tracker are related.
Frequently asked questions
How do you time contractions?
Time the length from start to end, and the frequency from the start of one contraction to the start of the next. This timer does both with one button.
What is the 5-1-1 rule?
Contractions every 5 minutes, each lasting about 1 minute, for 1 hour. Many hospitals use it as a guide for when to call, but follow your own unit's advice.
When should I go to hospital?
When your maternity unit tells you to. Call them straight away for waters breaking, bleeding, reduced movements or severe pain.
Is my data stored?
Only in this browser, so a refresh doesn't lose the session. Nothing is uploaded, and New session clears it.