Timing contractions: spacing, length and when to go to hospital

Once contractions become regular, the same question almost always comes up: is this it? The answer lies less in any single contraction than in the pattern — the spacing and the length. Here’s how to measure both properly and read the numbers without stress.

Two numbers matter: spacing and length

• Length: how long a single contraction lasts — from the first tightening until it fades again.
• Spacing: the time from the start of one contraction to the start of the next. Not from the end to the next one — that’s the most common mix-up.

How to count them

Note when a contraction starts. Note when it ends. As soon as the next one begins, you have the spacing. Across several contractions you’ll see whether they’re getting closer together and longer. You can do this with pen and paper — or let an app handle the maths while you focus on your breathing.

The 5-1-1 rule

A widely used rule of thumb is 5-1-1:

• 5 – contractions come roughly every 5 minutes,
• 1 – each one lasts about 1 minute,
• 1 – and this has held for at least 1 hour.

If that’s true for you and your pregnancy is straightforward, it’s usually time to head to the hospital or birth centre.

A guideline, not a law

5-1-1 is a reference point, not a fixed rule. Some midwives or units say 4-1-1 or 6-1-1. Second babies often arrive faster, and if you live far from the hospital you may want to set off a little earlier. What applies to you is best agreed in advance with your midwife or birth unit.

When to call or set off sooner

Whatever the numbers say — call or go in if:

• your waters break,
• you notice bright red bleeding,
• you feel your baby move noticeably less,
• contractions become regular before 37 weeks,
• you simply feel unsure.

Better to call once too often than once too little — your midwife would rather hear from you.

Rest between contractions

The time between contractions is yours: rest, drink, move, change position. Your body takes breaks — use them, instead of bracing for the next one.

Not sure they’re even real contractions?

Then How to recognise labour: practice vs real contractions will help you read the signs. And to keep the departure relaxed, it pays to have your hospital bag packed in good time.