Contraction timer
One big button, usable with one hand. Tap when a contraction starts, tap again when it ends.
Updated October 13, 2026 · sources checked October 13, 2026
In short
Time each contraction from its start to its end, and the gap from the start of one to the start of the next. The NHS says to contact your maternity unit when contractions are regular and come every 5 minutes or more often, and urgently if one lasts more than 2 minutes or you have 6 or more in 10 minutes.
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Tap the button when a contraction starts, and again when it ends.
Many hospitals ask you to come in when contractions are about 5 minutes apart, last about 1 minute, for about an hour (the “5-1-1” guide, Cleveland Clinic). The NHS says to contact your maternity unit when contractions are regular and every 5 minutes or more often. Your own team’s instructions come first.
Whatever the timing, go to the hospital or call now if your water has broken, you are bleeding heavily, the pain is constant and severe, or your baby is moving less (ACOG).
How to time contractions
- Length: from the moment the tightening starts to the moment it eases off.
- Frequency: from the start of one contraction to the start of the next.
- Time several in a row: one contraction says little, a pattern says a lot.
When to call or go in
| Situation | What to do |
|---|---|
| Regular contractions, every 5 minutes or more often | Contact your maternity unit (NHS) |
| A contraction lasting more than 2 minutes, or 6 or more in 10 minutes | Contact them urgently (NHS) |
| Your waters have broken | Call your maternity unit or provider and follow their instructions (ACOG, NHS) |
| Heavy bleeding, constant severe pain, or your baby moving less | Go to hospital or call now (ACOG) |
| You feel the baby is coming and a strong urge to push | Call 999 in the UK, 911 in the US (NHS) |
For the partner
You can run the timer while she focuses on breathing: tap at the start and end of each contraction, and read the summary of the last hour to the midwife on the phone.
Before the day
Read the signs of labor and pack the hospital bag from about 36 weeks.
Questions parents ask
What is the 5-1-1 rule?
A guide many US hospitals use, described by Cleveland Clinic as contractions five minutes apart, lasting one minute each, for about an hour. Your own maternity team may give you different instructions; theirs come first.
Is my list saved?
Only on this phone, in your browser, so you can close the page and come back. Nothing is sent anywhere. Use "Clear the list" when you are done.
Sources
- NHS — Signs that labour has begun checked October 13, 2026
- ACOG — How to Tell When Labor Begins (FAQ) checked October 13, 2026
- Cleveland Clinic — What To Know About Labor and Delivery checked October 13, 2026
Mamavela explains; it does not replace your midwife, doctor or pediatrician, who know your situation. If something worries you, call them. In an emergency, call 911 (US), 999 (UK) or 112.