If I had a dollar for every time a patient told me ""I wasn't sure if I should come in yet,"" I'd have retired by now. Knowing when to head to the hospital is genuinely one of the most stressful parts of labor — and I get it. You don't want to be sent home, but you also don't want to wait too long.
\n\nSo let me break it down the way I explain it to my own patients.
\n\nThe 5-1-1 Rule (Your Best Friend)
\n\nThe classic guideline is the 5-1-1 rule: contractions coming every 5 minutes, lasting 1 minute each, for at least 1 hour. When you hit that pattern consistently, it's time to call your provider and head in.
\n\nBut here's what they don't always tell you — this is a guideline, not a law. Some situations mean you should go in sooner:
\n\n- \n
- Your water breaks — even without contractions, call your provider \n
- Heavy bleeding (not just spotting or bloody show) \n
- Decreased fetal movement — if baby isn't moving like usual \n
- You're GBS positive — you'll need antibiotics, so earlier is better \n
- You have a history of fast labors — second and third babies often come quicker \n
How to Time Contractions
\n\nTime from the start of one contraction to the start of the next one. That's the frequency. Then time how long each one lasts. There are great free apps for this, but even a simple stopwatch works.
\n\nReal labor contractions will:
\n- \n
- Get stronger over time (not weaker) \n
- Get closer together \n
- Get longer in duration \n
- Not stop when you change positions, drink water, or take a bath \n
Braxton Hicks vs. Real Contractions
\n\nBraxton Hicks contractions are your uterus practicing. They're irregular, usually painless (though they can be uncomfortable), and they go away when you change what you're doing. Real labor contractions don't care what you're doing — they're coming regardless.
\n\nIf you're unsure, try drinking a big glass of water, lying on your left side, and resting for 30 minutes. If contractions stop or become irregular, it's probably not go-time yet.
\n\nTrust Your Gut
\n\nHere's the thing I always tell my patients: if something feels off, come in. We would rather check you and send you home than have you wait too long at home. That's literally what we're here for. You will never be a burden for coming in to be checked — I promise.
\n\nYou know your body better than anyone. If your instinct says something is different, listen to it.
\n"This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider with any questions regarding your health or pregnancy.