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5th January 2024
07:15am GMT
That's the question many expecting mothers have and everyone's answer seems to differ. "Oh I didn't go until five hours after my water broke," says one mum while another tells of how she ran as soon as it happened.
It can all get a bit overwhelming trying to decide what you want to do and what's best for your baby no matter how much advice you receive and let's not even mention Braxton Hicks contractions either.
But when should you head for the hospital? Well according to the experts, you may have a bit more time than you think.
Thankfully there is a method that many people who work in labour and delivery recommend following; the 5-1-1 rule.
Though that might sound intimidating, when broken down it's easy to understand and follow. The rule suggests that you should go to the hospital when:
This can help you and your partner decide when it's time to get moving to the hospital as it reflects the end of early labour and the move into the active stage.
Yet labour isn't linear and often will not follow an exact pattern, so you can give yourself some wiggle room as the contractions may speed up or even slow down.
If you feel that you can wait a bit longer or even need to go a bit sooner to the hospital go with your own feelings and do what's best for you and baby.
Speaking to Parents Magazine, Axia Women's Health OB-GYN, Dr Jennifer Gilbert said usually if her patients have been following this rule they will welcome their little ones to the world within 24 to 36 hours.
Yet it is important to remember if this is not your first baby they may arrive a bit sooner than that.
Of course, if you have any concerns or worries as you wait for your little one to arrive, don't be afraid to contact your provider for any extra advice and help you may need.
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