Contraction Timer

Track your labor contractions with this Contraction Timer. Press Start Contraction when a contraction begins and Stop Contraction when it ends — the timer automatically records the duration, frequency, and contraction count. Your history table shows every contraction's start time, stop time, length, and interval so you can share the log with your healthcare provider.

Press Start when a contraction begins, Stop when it ends.

Add an optional note for this contraction.

Results

Total Contractions

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Last Duration

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Avg Duration

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Last Interval

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Avg Interval

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Recommendation

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Results Table

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use this contraction timer?

Select 'Start Contraction' and press Calculate when a contraction begins, then select 'Stop Contraction' and press Calculate when it ends. The timer records the duration and the time between contractions automatically. Repeat for each contraction to build your history log.

What are contractions during labor?

Labor contractions are rhythmic tightening and releasing of the uterine muscles that help push the baby down the birth canal. They typically start mild and irregular, then grow stronger, longer, and closer together as active labor progresses.

How are contractions timed precisely?

Duration is measured from the moment a contraction starts to when it ends. Frequency (interval) is measured from the start of one contraction to the start of the next. Tracking both values helps you and your provider assess how far along labor is.

What is the 5-1-1 rule and when should I go to the hospital?

The 5-1-1 rule means contractions are 5 minutes apart, last at least 1 minute each, and have followed that pattern for at least 1 hour. When you hit this pattern, most providers recommend heading to the hospital or birthing center.

What are Braxton Hicks contractions and how are they different from real labor?

Braxton Hicks are 'practice' contractions that are irregular, usually painless, and stop with rest or a change in position. Real labor contractions become progressively stronger, longer, and more regular — they do not stop with rest and get closer together over time.

What are preterm labor contractions?

Preterm labor contractions occur before 37 weeks of pregnancy. They feel like real labor contractions — regular, increasingly painful, and getting closer together. If you experience these before 37 weeks, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Can I save or print my contraction history?

Your contraction history is displayed in the table on this page during your session. You can take a screenshot or use your browser's print function to create a printable record to share with your doctor, midwife, or hospital staff.

How many contractions should I track before going to the hospital?

Most providers recommend tracking contractions for at least one hour to identify a clear pattern. If your contractions reach the 5-1-1 rule — 5 minutes apart, 1 minute long, for 1 hour — call your provider or head to the hospital. Always follow the guidance of your own healthcare team.

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