5cm dilated is considered the end of early labor. Typically, the pregnant person is at home at this time. So, the characteristics of contractions are used to gauge if this phase has been completed. The pregnant person’s subjective perspective of when contractions start and stop and whether the contractions feel ‘stronger’ are very important.
When the mother has noticed consistent contractions, it is time to start counting. Counting contractions takes practice. They are counted like menses (periods), from the beginning of one period to the beginning of the next.
Count in batches of three to six. Head to your birth setting once you’ve reached the 5-1-1 rule: Contractions 5 minutes apart, lasting 1 minute each for 1 hour.
If you’ve counted five contractions without this result, stop counting. Wait for something about the contractions to change, then start counting again. Changes in contractions are often how fast they are coming or how strong they feel.
Always inform your healthcare provider if there has been a change in your vaginal discharge or if you’re having contractions prior to 37 weeks pregnancy.
Order the Counting Contractions Worksheet for a guide on counting contractions.
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