Timing contractions during labor may sound pretty straightforward, but if you’re not doing it properly, you could really throw yourself for a loop (and possibly disappointment if you’re excited about finally having that baby).
To time contractions, start the clock at the onset of it. Let it build, peak, come back down and – here’s the kicker- keep the clock running. When the next one begins, that’s when you stop the clock. That gives you the true interval between contractions. (Duration is different.) Now, you can keep track with pen and paper. Chances are, though, you’ve got your phone handy, especially if you think labor may be imminent or occurring.
Here are three apps we recommend checking out to make timing easier.
1. Full Term (by Mustansir Golawala): Available to both Android and Apple users, this app provides all of the standard interval and duration calculating capabilities plus includes a fetal kick counter, weight tracker and handy reference section. Two bonuses to this app are that it’s compatible with Apple watches and allows you to enable a 5-1-1 alert. (5-1-1, meaning contractions are 5 minutes apart, lasting for about a minute, and this pattern has lasted at least an hour. This is a common guideline for determining the onset of active labor and often a recommended time to consider heading to the hospital.)
2. Contraction Timer (by James Ots): This sleek Android app helps to time the interval between contractions, as well as the duration. It automatically generates a simple graph for interpretation and allows users to add comments to logged contractions (ex. if mom’s water broke). It also has the capability to email a spreadsheet version to anyone who needs to be kept in the loop – great for a partner, doula, and/or care provider.
3. Baby Arrives! (by Eyal Lezmy): While this is still in beta testing, it’s a nice alternative to the very detailed, information-heavy apps previously mentioned. The heart in the center that “beats” with every second of the contraction can be a good distraction to help find rhythm and allows the mother to choose the intensity level. The intensities are color coded and used alongside the timing information for quick reference.
Want to talk more about what to expect when you’re expecting? Get in touch.