Which contractions pattern indicates delivery is imminent?

• A. They last 60 seconds and they are 5 minutes apart
• B. They last 15 seconds and they are 20 minutes apart
• C. They last 45 seconds and they are 1-2 minutes apart
• D. They last 30 seconds and they are 2 to 3 minutes apart

Answer: (D)

Recognize delivery is imminent when contractions become regular and frequent, allowing little rest between them. The pattern of about 2 to 3 minutes between contractions shows the uterus is moving toward the pushing stage, signaling imminent birth. The duration of each contraction matters, but the key indicator for imminent delivery in many EMS guidelines is the frequent, regular contraction pattern that leaves little recovery time.

Contractions that are longer but spaced farther apart mean labor is progressing but not yet imminent. Very short contractions that occur every several minutes also don’t indicate imminent delivery, as they’re not sustained enough to suggest the baby is ready to be born. A pattern of moderate duration with 1–2 minutes between contractions points to active labor rather than the final imminent stage.