Understanding Contractions and the 5-1-1 Rule
Knowing when to head to the hospital or birthing center can be stressful. The universal standard obstetricians use is the 5-1-1 Rule. This rule indicates that your body has transitioned from early (latent) labor into active labor, where cervical dilation accelerates.
What to Measure
- DURATION
Duration is how long a single contraction lasts, measured from when you first feel the tightening until it completely relaxes. In active labor, duration consistently reaches 60 seconds or more.
- FREQUENCY
Frequency is the time between contractions. Importantly, it is measured from the START of one to the START of the next — not from the end of one to the start of the next.
- INTENSITY
While a timer cannot measure intensity, it is a crucial factor. Active labor contractions are generally strong enough that you cannot talk or walk through them.
When Should You Ignore the 5-1-1 Rule?
While 5-1-1 is a great general rule, you should contact your provider or go to the hospital immediately if:
- Your water breaks (especially if fluid is green or brown).
- You experience heavy vaginal bleeding (more than light spotting).
- You feel a significant decrease in fetal movement.
- You are scheduled for a C-section or VBAC and were given specific instructions.