A contraction timer helps expectant parents track the frequency, duration, and pattern of labor contractions. By monitoring when contractions start, how long they last, and the interval between them, you can determine whether labor is progressing and when it may be time to head to the hospital using the 5-1-1 rule.
Press the button when a contraction starts
Contraction Log
Medical Disclaimer
This tool is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always contact your healthcare provider or go to the hospital if you have concerns about your labor, experience heavy bleeding, your water breaks, or if contractions are very painful regardless of timing.
How to Use the Contraction Timer
When labor begins, timing your contractions is one of the most important ways to understand how your labor is progressing. This free contraction timer helps you accurately track when each contraction starts, how long it lasts, and the interval between contractions so you can make informed decisions about when to head to the hospital or birthing center.
Step 1: Start Timing a Contraction
When you feel a contraction begin, tap the large Start Contraction button. The timer will begin counting up in real time, showing you exactly how long the contraction is lasting. The button is intentionally large and easy to tap because fine motor control can be challenging during labor. Keep the page open on your phone or tablet throughout labor for continuous tracking.
Step 2: Stop When the Contraction Ends
When the contraction subsides and the pain or tightening eases, tap the Stop Contraction button. The timer records the duration of that contraction and logs it in your contraction history. The tool automatically calculates the interval between contractions by measuring the time from the start of one contraction to the start of the next.
Step 3: Monitor the 5-1-1 Rule Status
As you log more contractions, the 5-1-1 rule status indicator updates automatically. This widely-used guideline suggests heading to the hospital when contractions are 5 minutes apart, lasting at least 1 minute each, and this pattern has continued for 1 hour or more. The indicator shows green for early labor, yellow for active labor that is progressing, and red when the 5-1-1 criteria are met and you should consider going to the hospital.
Step 4: Review Your Contraction History
The contraction log displays every recorded contraction with its start time, duration, and the interval from the previous contraction. Running averages for duration and interval are displayed above the log, helping you spot trends. You can delete individual entries if you accidentally logged a false contraction, or clear all data to start fresh. The stats update in real time as you add or remove entries.
Step 5: Export and Share Your Summary
Use the Export button to copy a text summary of your contraction data. This summary includes the total number of contractions, average duration, average interval, tracking start time, and the 5-1-1 status. You can paste this into a text message or note to share with your partner, doula, midwife, or hospital staff so they can quickly assess your labor progress when you arrive. The entire tool works offline with no network connection needed, making it reliable even in areas with poor cell service.
FAQ
Is this contraction timer free to use?
Yes, the Contraction Timer is completely free with no limits. You can time as many contractions as you need during labor. There is no signup required, no premium tier, and no ads interrupting your experience. It works on any device with a web browser.
Is my data safe and private?
Yes, everything runs entirely in your browser using client-side JavaScript. Your contraction data is never sent to a server, never stored in a database, and never shared with anyone. The data only exists in your browser session. When you close the page or clear your data, it is gone.
What is the 5-1-1 rule for contractions?
The 5-1-1 rule is a guideline used by healthcare providers to help determine when to go to the hospital. It means contractions are coming every 5 minutes apart, each lasting at least 1 minute, and this pattern has continued for at least 1 hour. When all three conditions are met, it typically indicates active labor and it is time to head to the hospital.
How do I know if my contractions are real labor or Braxton Hicks?
Real labor contractions follow a regular pattern, gradually get closer together, last longer, and feel stronger over time. Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular, do not get consistently closer together, and usually go away with rest or hydration. This timer helps you track the pattern so you can identify whether contractions are progressing like real labor.
When should I start timing my contractions?
Start timing contractions when they begin to feel regular and somewhat painful. Early labor contractions may be 15 to 20 minutes apart and last 60 to 90 seconds. Use this timer to track the pattern and see if contractions are getting closer together and lasting longer, which indicates labor is progressing.
How accurate is this contraction timer?
The timer uses your device's built-in clock and is accurate to the second. It measures the exact duration of each contraction from when you press Start to when you press Stop, and calculates the interval between contractions automatically. The accuracy is comparable to any stopwatch or timer app.
Can I use this timer on my phone during labor?
Yes, this timer is designed to be mobile-friendly with large, easy-to-tap buttons that work well even during labor when fine motor control may be difficult. It works in any mobile browser without needing to download an app. Keep your phone screen on and the page open to continue timing.
What do the color indicators mean?
Green means early labor, where contractions are more than 7 minutes apart or shorter than 45 seconds. Yellow means active labor is progressing, with contractions 5 to 7 minutes apart and lasting 45 to 60 seconds. Red means you should consider heading to the hospital, with contractions 5 minutes or less apart, lasting 60 seconds or more, for at least 1 hour.