Stopwatch › Guides › How to time contractions with a stopwatch
Time contractions from the start of one to the start of the next, and note how long each lasts. What ACOG and NIH say about true versus false labor.
| True labor | False labor (Braxton Hicks) | |
|---|---|---|
| Pattern | Regular, getting closer together | Irregular, not getting closer |
| Rest and water | Continue | Often stop |
| Strength | Steadily stronger | Weak, or fading |
ACOG says each true labor contraction lasts about 60 to 90 seconds. NIH notes that people with regular contractions every five to ten minutes for an hour should contact their healthcare provider.
ACOG advises calling if you think labor has started or you are not sure, and right away if your water breaks. Follow the plan your own clinician gave you.
Yes. Frequency is measured from the beginning of one contraction to the beginning of the next.
Last checked: 29 October 2026.