About the Contraction Timer Tracker
Our free online contraction timer tracker helps you monitor labor contractions by measuring their duration (how long each contraction lasts) and frequency (time from the start of one contraction to the start of the next). This contraction tracker is essential for knowing when to go to the hospital or call your healthcare provider.
How to Use This Contraction Timer Tracker
- Start timing - Press "Start Contraction" when you feel the contraction begin (when your belly tightens)
- End timing - Press "End Contraction" when the contraction is over (when your belly relaxes)
- Wait for the next one - The contraction timer tracker will automatically track the time until your next contraction
- Repeat - Continue using the tracker to establish a pattern
What This Contraction Tracker Measures
- Duration - How long each contraction lasts, typically measured in seconds. Early labor contractions may last 30-45 seconds, while active labor contractions can last 60-90 seconds.
- Frequency - The time from the START of one contraction to the START of the next. This is different from the rest time between contractions.
When to Go to the Hospital
Use your contraction timer tracker to watch for the 5-1-1 rule:
- 5 minutes apart - Contractions are coming every 5 minutes
- 1 minute long - Each contraction lasts about 1 minute
- 1 hour - This pattern has continued for at least 1 hour
However, always follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions, especially if you have a high-risk pregnancy or live far from the hospital. This contraction tracker will alert you when you reach the 5-1-1 pattern.
Signs of Active Labor
Your contraction timer tracker can help you identify active labor when:
- Contractions become longer, stronger, and closer together
- Contractions follow a regular pattern
- Walking or moving doesn't make contractions stop
- You cannot talk or walk through contractions
- Contractions start in your back and move to the front
When to Call Your Provider Immediately
- Your water breaks (especially if the fluid is green or brown)
- You have vaginal bleeding
- You feel the baby moving less than usual
- You have severe or constant pain
- Contractions start before 37 weeks
Tips for Using the Contraction Timer Tracker
- Stay calm - Try to relax between contractions
- Track several - Use the contraction tracker for at least 4-5 contractions to see a pattern
- Note intensity - Pay attention to whether contractions are getting stronger
- Rest when possible - Save your energy for active labor
- Stay hydrated - Drink water between contractions
- Export your data - Use the export feature to share your contraction history with your healthcare provider
Why Use a Contraction Timer Tracker?
A contraction timer tracker takes the guesswork out of labor timing. Instead of trying to remember when each contraction started and ended, this contraction tracker automatically calculates duration and frequency for you. The tracker saves your contraction history so you can see patterns develop over time, and you can export the data to share with your doctor or midwife.