Braxton Hicks or labour? How the 5-1-1 rule actually works

Braxton Hicks tightenings are common in the third trimester. They often stay irregular, sit at the front of the abdomen, and settle if you drink, empty your bladder, or change position. They are not a reason to drive in on their own.

Labour contractions tend to start in the back or low belly, grow stronger over time, and keep a rhythm even after rest. A widely used checkpoint is the 5-1-1 rule: contractions about every five minutes, lasting about one minute, for about one hour.

Use the timer in Midwife Pocket if you are not sure. Note the start and end of each wave. If they stay five minutes apart, last a full minute, and do not ease after a bath or a glass of water, call your midwife or labour ward. If you are before 37 weeks, leaking fluid, bleeding, or the baby is moving less, do not wait for 5-1-1 — go in.

The timer is a notebook, not a diagnosis. Your named midwife still decides when you should travel.

Informational only. Midwife Pocket is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Bleeding, leaking fluid, reduced movement, or feeling unwell — contact maternity triage.