Contraction Timer
Track your contractions with a timer and log your sessions.
Introduction
Welcome to the Contraction Timer! This tool helps expectant moms track the duration and frequency of contractions during labor. Click the baby footprint to start and end each contraction, view your history in a table, and get feedback on your contraction patterns.
How to Use
- Click the "Start Contraction" baby footprint when you feel a contraction begin.
- Click the "End Contraction" baby footprint when the contraction ends.
- View the duration of the contraction and the frequency (time since the last contraction).
- Click "Reset" to clear the current session and start over.
- View your latest contraction details, including feedback, and see your history in a table.
- Click "Save Sessions" to store your data locally.
Understanding Contractions
Why Track Contractions?
Tracking contractions helps determine if you’re in active labor. Regular, frequent contractions that increase in intensity are a sign that labor is progressing, and you may need to head to the hospital or contact your healthcare provider.
How We Calculate
We track the duration and frequency of your contractions:
- Duration = Time from the start to the end of a contraction (in seconds).
- Frequency = Time between the start of one contraction and the start of the next (in minutes).
Interpreting Results
5-1-1 Rule: If contractions are 5 minutes apart, lasting 1 minute (60 seconds) each, for 1 hour, it’s often time to contact your healthcare provider (common for first-time moms). For subsequent pregnancies, the 4-1-1 rule (4 minutes apart) may apply.
Early Labor: If contractions are irregular or more than 5 minutes apart, you may be in early labor. Rest, hydrate, and continue tracking.
Use the history table to look for patterns in your contractions over time.
Tips for Tracking
- Start timing as soon as you feel the tightening of a contraction.
- Stop timing when the contraction fully subsides.
- Track consistently to identify patterns, especially as contractions become more frequent.
- If you experience severe pain, bleeding, or your water breaks, contact your healthcare provider immediately, regardless of contraction patterns.
Limitations
Every labor is unique, and contraction patterns can vary. This timer provides general guidance based on common benchmarks (e.g., the 5-1-1 rule), but it’s not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider if you’re unsure.
FAQs
When should I start timing contractions?
Start timing when you notice regular contractions that feel stronger or closer together, often in late pregnancy or early labor.
What’s the difference between Braxton Hicks and true labor contractions?
Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular, often painless, and don’t get closer together. True labor contractions are regular, increase in intensity, and become more frequent over time.
When should I go to the hospital?
Follow the 5-1-1 rule (or 4-1-1 for subsequent pregnancies): contractions 5 minutes apart, lasting 1 minute each, for 1 hour. However, if your water breaks, you have severe pain, or bleeding, go immediately.
About This Timer
Built by xAI, this Contraction Timer helps expectant moms monitor their contractions with a timer, history table, and tailored feedback. For personalized medical advice, consult your healthcare provider.