Answer questions about your symptoms to get guidance on whether you might be in labor and when to contact your healthcare provider or head to the hospital.
This tool provides general guidance only and is NOT a substitute for professional medical advice. Every pregnancy is different. When in doubt, always contact your healthcare provider immediately. For true emergencies, call 911.
True labor contractions follow the 5-1-1 rule: 5 minutes apart, lasting 1 minute, for 1 hour
Unable to continue conversation during peak of contraction
Consistent pattern lasting over an hour indicates active labor may be starting
Rupture of membranes - clear, odorless fluid that you cannot control
Thick mucus with pink/brown blood - can happen days before or during early labor
Persistent back pain that doesn't improve with position changes
Feeling like baby is pressing down or urge to have bowel movement
Body's natural way of clearing out before labor
Sudden burst of energy and desire to prepare nest
Emotional changes as body prepares for labor
Heavy bleeding like a period or more - not normal during labor
Noticeable decrease in baby's normal movement pattern
Could indicate preeclampsia - requires immediate attention
When contractions are 5 minutes apart, lasting 1 minute each, for 1 hour - head to the hospital!
You know your body best. This tool provides guidance, but always trust your instincts and contact your healthcare provider when you have concerns.
