When contractions are about 3 minutes apart, it generally indicates that you are in active labor, which is the phase where the cervix dilates from about 6 to 10 centimeters in preparation for birth

. How long until birth at 3-minute contractions?

• The active phase of labor, with contractions 3 to 5 minutes apart lasting around 45-60 seconds, typically lasts about 3 to 5 hours for a first-time mother

• After active labor, the transition phase occurs, where contractions are even closer (2 to 3 minutes apart) and more intense, lasting 15 minutes to an hour before full dilation (10 cm) is reached

• Once fully dilated, the second stage of labor begins, which involves pushing and can last from 20 minutes to a few hours depending on the individual

• Therefore, if contractions are consistently 3 minutes apart and strong, birth may be expected within a few hours, but this varies widely by individual and previous birth experience

Summary:

• Contractions 3 minutes apart usually mean active labor.
• Active labor can last 3-5 hours.
• Transition phase follows, lasting up to an hour.
• Pushing and birth occur after full dilation.
• Total time from 3-minute contractions to birth is often a few hours but varies.

It's advisable to go to your birthing center or hospital when contractions are regularly about 3 to 5 minutes apart, as labor is progressing actively