Free contraction timer — tap to time how long contractions last and how far apart they are, with the 5-1-1 rule to know when to go to hospital.
Contractions
Go to hospital or call your midwife straight away — whatever the timing — if your waters break, you have bleeding, your baby is moving less, you have constant severe pain, or you are less than 37 weeks pregnant.
How to time contractions
Length: from the start of one contraction to its end.
How far apart (frequency): from the start of one contraction to the start of the next.
Tap the big button when a contraction starts and again when it ends. The timer works out the averages for the last hour for you.
When should I go to the hospital?
A common guide for a first baby is the 5-1-1 rule: contractions about 5 minutes apart, each lasting about 1 minute, for at least 1 hour. If you have had a baby before, or live far from the hospital, you may be told to go sooner — always follow the advice your doctor or midwife gave you.
Stage
Contractions
What to do
Early labour
5–20 minutes apart, 30–45 seconds
Rest, eat lightly, drink water, stay at home if all is well
Active labour
3–5 minutes apart, 45–60 seconds
Go to hospital / call your midwife
Transition
2–3 minutes apart, 60–90 seconds
You should already be in hospital
Braxton Hicks or real labour?
Braxton Hicks: irregular, do not get closer together, often ease when you walk or rest.
Real labour: become regular, stronger and closer together, and do not stop with rest.
Go straight away, whatever the timing, if your waters break, you have bleeding, your baby is moving less, you have constant severe pain, or you are less than 37 weeks pregnant.
Frequently asked questions
How far apart should contractions be before going to the hospital?
For most first-time mothers, about 5 minutes apart, lasting about a minute, for an hour. Your hospital may give you different advice.
How long does early labour last?
For a first baby it can last many hours, sometimes more than a day. Later labours are often quicker.
Is my data saved?
Your contractions are saved only in this browser, so the list is still there if you refresh the page.
Reviewed for accuracy against the sources above. This page is general information, not medical advice — talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian about your own needs.