Recent Contractions
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No contractions logged yet.
5-1-1 Contraction Timer – Track Labor & Know When to Go
What is the 5-1-1 Rule for Labor?
The 5-1-1 rule is a globally recognized guideline used by midwives and obstetricians to help parents understand when active labor has likely begun. 5: Contractions are 5 minutes apart (from the start of one to the start of the next). 1: Each contraction lasts for at least 1 minute. 1: This pattern continues consistently for 1 hour.
How this contraction timer helps
During the intensity of labor, tracking numbers in your head is nearly impossible. Our 5-1-1 timer takes the mental load off your plate. By simply tapping "Start" and "Stop", the tool automatically:
- Calculates precise contraction duration
- Measures the resting gap between waves
- Analyzes your last hour of history to check for the 5-1-1 pattern
- Provides instant visual alerts when milestones are met
When should you go to the hospital?
If your average stats show contractions are ~5 mins apart and 1 min long for over an hour, it's time to call your provider. Always prioritize medical advice: If you experience water breaking, heavy bleeding, or decreased fetal movement, go to the hospital immediately regardless of what the timer says.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a contraction timer?
It's a digital tool designed to replace pen-and-paper tracking. It provides accurate timing of labor waves to help identify if you are in early, active, or transition labor.
Is this contraction timer accurate?
Yes. It uses your device's high-precision system clock to record start and end times to the millisecond, then rounds them for easy reading.
When should I start timing contractions?
Start timing as soon as you feel a consistent pattern of "tightening" or waves that feel significantly different from Braxton Hicks (false labor).