Eating & Drinking During Labour

History lesson:
In the 1900's, 'nothing by mouth' policies were introduced. This meant labouring women were forced to fast for the duration of their labour. This policy was due to an increased risk of aspiration (foreign body entering the lungs) under anaesthesia. However, not everyone will require anaesthesia and the safety of anaesthesia has improved significantly. Many hospital guidelines have not changed, despite research showing there being little to no harm to eating and drinking during labour. In addition to the literature not showing significant risk, we also do not have data that shows fasting during labour guarantees an empty stomach. If the stomach IS empty, there could be a higher amount of stomach acid, which (if aspirated) could be even more dangerous than food itself (Harty et al, 2015).

The Research:
A Cochrane Review of 5 RCTs (low risk births) found no benefit OR harm to eating and drinking during labour. it's important to note here that these studies did NOT ask Mum about how they felt. So potentially, there could be a lot of benefit (see my experience below).

A larger, more recent review showed slightly shorter labour in women who ate & drink during labour, and these women were twice as likely to report feeling satisfied throughout labour than the group who were only given sips of water (Goodall & Wallymahmed, 2006).

My Experience:
Clinically, the women I see in my Doula practice who eat and drink during labour report feeling more energized during labour, allowing them to continue pushing and seem to be less likely to need/request interventions because they have the energy to keep running this marathon of the uterus!

Overall:
There is no literature that suggests an 'ideal' nutrition plan for those in labour. I always recommend my Doula clients 'go with their gut' and eat foods that they love, make them feel good, and are easy to consume between contractions. Foods easier to digest & higher in carbohydrates may be a good idea, as we know muscles use glucose for energy.

*These studies are low risk births. Having a high BMI does not automatically make you a high risk birth. This is not medical advice. Always discuss with your healthcare provider. 

​Download my FREE guide to eating during labour below- with a bonus make-ahead recipe!

Eating During Labour Handout