Labor Contraction Timer

5-1-1 Rule: Contractions **5 min apart**, **1 min long**, **for 1 hour** → Go to hospital.
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Recent Contractions

    Frequency: Time from start to start

    Duration: Length of contraction

    5-1-1: 5 min apart, 1 min long, 1 hour

    Labor Contraction Timer 2025: When to Go to Hospital (5-1-1 Rule)

    Use our **real-time timer** to track **frequency**, **duration**, and **intensity**. Follow **ACOG 5-1-1 rule**.

    Labor Stages

    StageContractionsDurationAction
    Early5–30 min apart30–45 secRest at home
    Active3–5 min apart45–60 secGo to hospital
    Transition2–3 min apart60–90 secAt hospital

    5-1-1 Rule

    • First baby: 5 min apart, 1 min long, 1 hour
    • Subsequent: 10 min apart or water breaks
    • Twins/VBAC: Call OB earlier

    Signs of True Labor

    • Regular, stronger over time
    • Pain in back → abdomen
    • Walking makes stronger
    • Cervix dilates

    False Labor (Braxton Hicks)

    • Irregular, weaken with rest
    • Upper abdomen only
    • No cervical change

    When to Go Immediately

    • Water breaks (clear fluid)
    • Bleeding > period
    • Baby moves less
    • Severe pain, fever

    Tips While Timing

    • Time from **start to start**
    • Press at first tightening
    • Rate intensity: mild, moderate, strong

    First vs Subsequent Birth

    • First: Labor 12–18 hrs
    • Next: 6–8 hrs
    • Go earlier if fast previous birth

    FAQs

    Water broke but no contractions? Go within 1–2 hrs.

    Contractions 3 min apart? Head to hospital.

    Can I eat? Light snacks early; ice chips later.

    Conclusion

    Use our **2025 Labor Timer** from first contraction. **Call OB** with questions.

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