When to start timing contractions?

Question

First time mom here, 37w 4d. OB has said when I’m to call/head to the hospital as far as contractions go- but any advise on when I should start timing them? I’ve had them off and off today but I guess I’m not sure when they qualify as “real” enough to start timing? Do they need to be strong enough to be painful? I guess I’m just sort of lost on that aspect. Any insight would be helpful! 😊

Answer

Nope, they don’t need to hurt. Once they feel consistent, start timing. Use the 5-1-1 rule before going in; 5 minutes apart, lasts for 1 minute (give or take), and lasts for 1 hour. :)

Answer

Time any thing you think might be a contraction and if its regular, wait for them to either become really painful or when they have been under 5 minutes apart for over an hour. Because contractions arent always what you expect. They can be pressure, tightnings, gas pain, feelings of needing to poop, period cramps, back aches etc mine are usually gas like pains

Answer

Second the last post. If you are noticing them happening quite a bit painful or not just start timing them

When to start timing contractions?

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