How do I time contractions?

Timing contractions:

When timing contractions, you are looking to measure the time between the beginning of one contraction until the beginning of the next contraction. For example if your contraction started at 4:04pm and the next contraction started at 4:08pm, there is a 4 minute gap between (this includes the timing of the first contraction!)

There are several apps available for free to download to make this easier. If you are measuring the time without the help of an app, it is best to use a watch/timer that can measure minutes and seconds. Noting the time and and length of contractions in a table like the one below will allow you to easily keep track of how your contractions are progressing.

What am I looking for?

Look for the 5-1-1 pattern. This means contractions are occurring every four to five minutes, they are lasting for at least one minute and they have been occurring in this pattern for one hour. If you see the 5-1-1 pattern and contractions are difficult to manage, you should consider heading to the hospital or birthing centre.

Other resources:

https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=abs2382