Free tool

Contraction Timer

Tap when a contraction starts, tap again when it ends. The timer does the math, you hold her hand.

Saved on this device only. Close the tab and your times are still here.

Pregnant woman in silhouette by a bright window, looking down with one hand on her belly

Rule one: stay calm. Rule two: remember rule one.

Lasted
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Time apart
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Last hour
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No need to time every one. Time 5 or 6 in a row, then put the phone down and time again when they feel stronger.

Your contractions

StartedLastedApart

Nothing yet. When the first one starts, tap the big button. Then breathe. Both of you.

When should you go to the hospital?

Most US hospitals use the 5-1-1 rule: contractions 5 minutes apart, lasting 1 minute each, for 1 hour. Some doctors want a call sooner, for example if you live far away or it isn't her first baby. If your OB or midwife gave you a different rule, theirs wins. And if she's struggling or you're unsure, call anyway.

Not sure it's the real thing? Practice contractions ease off when she rests, walks or drinks water. Real ones keep coming. More in how to know if you're in labor.

Call right away, whatever the timer says

  • Her water breaks, or you think it did
  • The fluid is green, brown, bloody or smells bad
  • Heavy bleeding, more than a period
  • The baby is moving less than usual
  • Under 37 weeks and it might be labor
  • Severe pain that doesn't ease between contractions
  • Fever, a severe headache or changes in her vision
  • A strong urge to push
  • Either of you feels something is wrong

If it feels like an emergency, call 911.

More on your job once you get there

Timing contractions is step one.

The rest of labor, and what you actually do in the delivery room, is in the Ready Dad course. Launching early 2027.

Sources

General information, not medical advice. Always follow your own doctor or midwife.