As an expectant mother, it can be difficult to know exactly when to head to the hospital when you`re experiencing contractions. On one hand, you don`t want to rush to the hospital too early and end up waiting around for hours. On the other hand, you don`t want to wait too long and risk giving birth on the side of the road or at home.

So, when exactly should you go to the hospital when you`re having contractions?

The answer depends on a number of factors, including the intensity and frequency of your contractions, your personal preferences, and any special circumstances surrounding your pregnancy. Here are a few guidelines to keep in mind:

1. Time your contractions: One of the most important things you can do when you`re experiencing contractions is to time them. Contractions are generally considered to be “real” when they last at least 30-60 seconds and come every five minutes or so. Once your contractions are consistently coming at this frequency and duration, it`s time to head to the hospital.

2. Pay attention to the intensity of your contractions: In addition to timing your contractions, it`s important to pay attention to their intensity. “Real” contractions tend to be strong and painful, while Braxton Hicks contractions (also known as “false” contractions) are usually milder. If your contractions are getting increasingly intense and you`re having trouble managing the pain, it`s a good sign that it`s time to head to the hospital.

3. Consider other factors: While timing and intensity are important factors to consider, there are other things to keep in mind as well. For example, if you`re experiencing bleeding, your water has broken, or you have a history of preterm labor, you should head to the hospital right away. In addition, if you have a long distance to travel to get to the hospital, consider going sooner rather than later to avoid the risk of giving birth in the car.

Ultimately, the decision of when to go to the hospital is a personal one, and you should trust your instincts. If you`re unsure whether it`s time to head to the hospital, you can always call your doctor or midwife for guidance. Remember, it`s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to the health and wellbeing of you and your baby.