Free Online Contraction Timer – Track Labor with 5-1-1 Rule Accuracy
Monitor labor contractions in real-time with our medically designed contraction timer. Know exactly when to go to the hospital using the 5-1-1 rule (contractions 5 minutes apart, lasting 1 minute, for 1+ hour). Export data for your doctor and track progress with visual graphs.
Contraction Timer
Statistics
Timeline Visualization
| # | Start Time | End Time | Duration | Interval |
|---|
Why Our Contraction Timer Is the Most Accurate
- Click “Start Contraction” when you feel a contraction begin
- Click “End Contraction” when it completely subsides
- Review your data:
- Duration of each contraction (aim for ≥60 seconds)
- Time between contractions (watch for ≤5 minute intervals)
- Pattern persistence (should continue for ≥60 minutes)
Understanding Labor Contraction Patterns
Early Labor vs. Active Labor
| Characteristic | Early Labor | Active Labor |
|---|---|---|
| Contraction Timing | 20-30 mins apart | 3-5 mins apart |
| Duration | 30-45 seconds | 60+ seconds |
| Intensity | Mild to moderate | Strong, regular |
The 5-1-1 Rule Explained
Go to the hospital when:
- Contractions are 5 minutes apart (or less)
- Each lasts 1 minute (or longer)
- This pattern continues for 1 hour (or more)
⚠️ Emergency Signs (Go Immediately):
- Water breaks (even without contractions)
- Bleeding heavier than a menstrual period
- Baby moving less than usual
- Severe, constant abdominal pain
Key Features of Our Advanced Contraction Timer
1. Real-Time Contraction Tracking
Precision Timing: Accurately measures start/end of each contraction to the second.
Live Duration Display: Shows real-time countdown during active contractions.
2. 5-1-1 Rule Alerts
Automatic Pattern Detection: Flags when contractions meet hospital-admission criteria (≤5 mins apart, ≥60 secs long, for ≥60 mins).
Visual & Text Alerts: Bold status notifications and color-coded warnings.
3. Interactive Contraction Graph
Timeline Visualization: Bar chart displays contraction duration and frequency trends.
Pattern Recognition: Helps identify progressing labor vs. false alarms.
4. Comprehensive Statistics Panel
Averages: Calculates mean duration and interval between contractions.
Totals: Tracks cumulative contraction time and count.
Pattern Duration: Measures how long 5-1-1 has been sustained.
5. Data Export & Sharing
CSV Export: Download timestamps for your doctor/midwife.
Print Summary: Generate a clean, formatted report for medical visits.
6. Customizable Settings
Adjustable Guidelines: Modify 5-1-1 thresholds (e.g., for preterm labor monitoring).
Theme Options: Light/dark/auto mode for comfort during nighttime use.
7. User-Friendly Design
Mobile-Optimized: Works flawlessly on phones, tablets, and desktops.
One-Tap Controls: Large buttons for easy use during intense labor.
Multilingual Support: English/Spanish toggle (optional expansion).
8. Privacy-Focused
No Login Required: All data stays on the user’s device.
Local Storage: Saves progress between sessions without cloud storage.
9. Educational Integration
Embedded Labor Guidelines: Explains 5-1-1 rule and emergency signs.
Tooltips: Hover explanations for medical terms (e.g., “cervical dilation”).
10. Accessibility Features
Screen Reader Compatible: ARIA labels for visually impaired users.
High-Contrast Mode: For better visibility in low-light environments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How early should I start timing contractions?
What if my contractions stop and start?
Can I use this for Braxton Hicks contractions?
How accurate is the 5-1-1 rule?
Medical Disclaimer
This tool provides general health information and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding labor symptoms and timing.