Contraction Timer

How contractions change as labor progresses

As labor progresses, contractions generally become stronger, longer, and closer together. That pattern plays out across three phases of the first stage — every labor is different, so treat the specific numbers below as typical ranges, not a strict timetable:

• Early labor — mild, irregular contractions, often 5 to 30 minutes apart and lasting 30 to 45 seconds. Usually the longest phase, often 6 to 12 hours or more for a first baby, and many people find it manageable at home.
• Active labor — stronger, more regular contractions, typically every 3 to 5 minutes and lasting 45 to 60 seconds. This is usually when the 5-1-1 pattern shows up. When to head to your planned place of birth — hospital, birth center, or otherwise — depends on your own pregnancy and your provider's instructions.
• Transition — the most intense phase, with contractions every 2 to 3 minutes lasting 60 to 90 seconds, right before it's time to push.

Every labor is different, and these ranges are typical, not universal — some people move through phases much faster, especially with a second or later baby.

What is the 5-1-1 rule?

Many providers use "5-1-1" as a general guide: contractions 5 minutes apart, lasting 1 minute each, for at least 1 hour. This pattern is sometimes used as a general guide that labor may be becoming established — contraction timing alone can't confirm what stage of labor you're in. It's a guideline, not a strict rule — always follow your own provider's specific instructions, since they may adjust this based on your history (e.g., a faster labor with a previous birth).

Braxton Hicks vs. real contractions

Braxton Hicks contractions are practice contractions your body has throughout pregnancy — sometimes called "false labor." They tone the uterus in preparation for birth, but unlike real labor contractions, they don't open the cervix and aren't a sign that labor has started.

Braxton Hicks can sometimes become fairly regular too, so if you're ever unsure which you're experiencing, it's always fine to call and ask.

How to time a contraction correctly

Start the timer the moment a contraction begins, and stop it the moment it fully eases — that's the duration. To get the frequency, time from the start of one contraction to the start of the next, not from when one ends to when the next begins. Measuring end-to-start makes contractions look farther apart than they actually are.

A contraction timer can measure timing — it can't tell you whether you're in active labor or whether you or your baby need medical attention. Your midwife or doctor can assess your individual situation and tell you when to come in.

Getting ready for labor? Try the due date calculator, put together your birth plan, pack your hospital bag, see your birthing options ahead of time, and know the warning signs worth watching for throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions