Contraction timer
A free contraction timer built on the stopwatch with laps. Press Lap at the start of each contraction and the split column shows how far apart they are, which is the number your provider will ask for. Big digits, one button, and nothing to install while you are busy. Also searched as labor contraction timer, contraction counter, contraction tracker.
This page is not medical advice. It only measures time. Follow the instructions from your doctor or midwife about when to call and when to go to the hospital. Call your provider or emergency services now for heavy bleeding, water breaking with green or brown fluid, less movement from the baby, or severe constant pain. If you are in any doubt, call. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has more on the signs of labor.
How to time contractions
- Press Start, or Space, at the very start of a contraction.
- When it ends, glance at the running time. That is the contraction's duration.
- At the start of the next contraction, press Lap or L. The split is the time from the start of one to the start of the next, which is the frequency.
- Keep going. The newest lap is at the top. Write down the durations next to the splits, or have your partner do it.
- Read the pattern over an hour, not from two or three contractions.
Common rules of thumb
| Rule | Frequency | Duration | For how long |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5-1-1 | 5 minutes apart | 1 minute each | 1 hour |
| 4-1-1 | 4 minutes apart | 1 minute each | 1 hour |
These are general patterns used by many providers for a first baby at full term. Your provider may tell you to come in earlier, for example if you live far away, had a fast labor before, are carrying twins, or have a planned cesarean. Their instructions replace this table.
Tips
- Keep the screen on and the tab open. Unlike a countdown, the stopwatch does not survive a reload, so a closed tab means starting over.
- Do not pause between contractions. The splits only measure frequency while the stopwatch keeps running; press Reset and start fresh if you stop.
- The plain stopwatch and the lap timer are the same tool. After the birth, the baby feeding timer uses laps for each feeding side.
Frequently asked questions
How do I time contractions with this page?
Press Start at the beginning of a contraction and press Lap at the start of each one after that. The lap split is the time from one contraction to the next. Glance at the display when a contraction ends to see how long it lasted.
What is the 5-1-1 rule?
Contractions about 5 minutes apart, lasting about 1 minute each, for at least 1 hour. Many providers use it as the point to call or head in, but your own provider's instructions come first.
When should I call right away?
Call your provider or emergency services now for heavy bleeding, your water breaking with green or brown fluid, reduced baby movement, severe pain, or if you are unsure. Do not wait for a pattern.
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