How do I time my contractions?


For mild contractions it is pointless to time them. In fact you can ignore them. But if you feel your contractions are getting stronger, longer and closer together then timing them will give you an idea if you should be going to the hospital soon. To avoid getting to the hospital too early (only to be sent home) it is better to rule out false or early labor by understanding the contractions. At the other extreme having an unplanned delivery away from the hospital can also be prevented. To time your contractions count the seconds between the start and the end of the contraction. Also time the length between contractions by counting the minutes between the start of one contraction and the start of the next contraction. Generally your OB/GYN will want you come in when your contractions are following the 5-1-1 guideline.