Contractions when they first start are usually irregular and spaced quite far apart, typically about 15 to 20 minutes apart, and can last about 30 to 90 seconds. These early contractions are often mild and irregular and may even stop for a while. As labor progresses toward active labor, contractions become more regular, occurring about every 3 to 5 minutes and lasting around 50 to 70 seconds. During early labor, contractions are mild enough that a person can usually talk through them, and they gradually get stronger and closer together over time. For many, the spacing shortens from about 15-20 minutes apart initially to every 5 minutes or less as active labor approaches.
In summary:
- Early labor contractions: 15 to 20 minutes apart, mild, irregular, lasting 30 to 90 seconds.
- Transition to active labor: contractions become regular and occur every 3 to 5 minutes or less, lasting nearly a minute or more.