Contracking

How to Track Your Labor Contractions

When to Start Timing Contractions

Not all contractions need to be timed. Start tracking when:

  • Contractions become regular and noticeable
  • They last 30 seconds or longer
  • You feel them in your abdomen and possibly your back
  • They don't go away when you change positions
  • They gradually become stronger and more frequent

Early Labor Tip: You don't need to time every single contraction from the very beginning. Start timing when they become uncomfortable and regular.

Understanding the 5-1-1 Rule

The 5-1-1 rule is a guideline for when to contact your healthcare provider or go to the hospital:

5

Minutes Apart

Contractions are consistently 5 minutes apart

1

Minute Long

Each contraction lasts about 1 minute

1

Hour Duration

This pattern continues for at least 1 hour

Important: Every labor is different. Some people may need to go to the hospital before reaching the 5-1-1 pattern. Always follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions.

Using the Contraction Timer

1

Start Timing

Press the "Start" button as soon as you feel a contraction beginning. The timer will begin counting.

2

Stop When It Ends

Press "Stop" when the contraction completely ends and you feel the muscle relaxation.

3

Review Your Data

Check the table and charts to see your contraction patterns, frequency, and duration trends.

4

Share with Healthcare Provider

Export your data or share the information with your healthcare team for better labor management.

When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider

Contact immediately if you experience:

  • • Severe, constant pain
  • • Heavy bleeding
  • • Water breaking with green or brown fluid
  • • Decreased baby movement
  • • High fever or signs of infection

Regular Check-ins

  • When contractions follow the 5-1-1 pattern
  • If you're unsure whether you're in labor
  • When contractions are very painful or concerning
  • If your water breaks
  • According to your birth plan timeline

Understanding Your Contraction Data

Duration

How long each contraction lasts, typically measured in seconds. Early labor: 30-45 seconds, Active labor: 60-90 seconds.

Frequency

Time between the start of one contraction and the start of the next. Measured from peak to peak.

Intensity

While this app tracks timing, intensity is something you'll assess subjectively and discuss with your healthcare provider.

Patterns

Look for increasing regularity, frequency, and duration over time. True labor contractions become more predictable.