Contraction Timer — When to Go to Hospital | Baby Junctions

⏱️ Contraction Timer

Track your labour contractions in real time. Know when it's time to head to the hospital using the 5-1-1 rule.

Quick Answer

True labour contractions follow the 5-1-1 rule: contractions every 5 minutes, lasting 1 minute each, for at least 1 hour. Go to hospital immediately if contractions are under 5 minutes apart, your water breaks, you see bright red bleeding, or your baby's movements significantly decrease.

Waiting for contraction...
00:00 Press START when contraction begins
Rate intensity (optional)
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Contractions
Avg Frequency
Avg Duration
5-1-1 Rule
4-1-1 Rule
Active Labour

⏰ Time to Monitor Closely!

Your contractions are getting close. Keep timing and call your doctor or hospital for guidance.

🏥 Head to the Hospital Now!

Your contractions match the 5-1-1 pattern — 5 minutes apart, 1 minute long, for 1 hour. It's time to go!

📋 Contraction Log

Session: 0:00
# Time Duration Frequency Intensity
No contractions logged yet

📖 When to Go to Hospital

🏃 5-1-1 Rule

First-time mothers: contractions every 5 minutes, lasting 1 minute, for 1 hour.

⚡ Second Baby

If this is not your first baby, go earlier — at 7–10 minute intervals. Labour can be faster.

🚨 Go Immediately

Water breaks · Bright red bleeding · Baby not moving · Severe headache or vision changes.

😌 Braxton Hicks?

Irregular, painless, stop with movement or water. Real contractions grow longer, stronger, closer.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 5-1-1 rule for contractions?

Contractions every 5 minutes, lasting 1 minute, for at least 1 hour. This pattern generally signals active labour for first-time mothers.

How do I time contractions correctly?

Press START when a contraction begins and STOP when it fully ends. Duration = length of one contraction. Frequency = start-to-start interval between contractions.

What is the difference between Braxton Hicks and real contractions?

Braxton Hicks are irregular, don't intensify, and often stop with rest or hydration. Real contractions become progressively longer, stronger, and closer together.

Can I share this log with my doctor?

Yes — use the Print or Copy buttons to share your contraction log with your doctor or hospital. It gives them a clear picture of your labour pattern.

⚕️ Medical disclaimer: This tool is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or hospital's instructions. If you are unsure, call your maternity ward immediately. In an emergency, call 108 (India ambulance).
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📌 Quick Reference — Key Facts

5-1-1 Rule
Contractions every 5 min · lasting 1 min · for 1 hour = go to hospital
Active Labor
Contractions 3–4 minutes apart, 45–60 seconds long
Braxton Hicks
Irregular, painless, stop with position change — not true labour
Call Doctor If
Water breaks, bleeding, baby not moving, severe headache
✅ WHO Guidelines 🏥 IAP 2024 Verified 🇮🇳 India-Specific 🔒 No Data Stored 💯 100% Free 📱 Works Offline

📚 Sources & Medical References

All information on this tool follows guidelines from these authoritative organisations:

⚕️ Medical Disclaimer: All tools on Baby Junctions are for informational purposes only and do not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified doctor or IAP-certified paediatrician for your child's health decisions.

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