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16 February 2010
Eat, drink... and give birth 
The traditional practice of restricting food and fluids during labor does not provide any benefits, suggests new research by Dr. Joan Tranmer of the Queen's University School of Nursing. "Based on our review, there is no convincing and current evidence to support restriction of fluids, and perhaps food, for women during labor. Women should be able to choose for themselves," she said. Medicos have been concerned about eating and drinking during labor since the 1940s. The restriction is thought to prevent Mendelson's syndrome, a rare, but sometimes fatal, condition caused by the regurgitation of acidic stomach contents into the lungs when a general anesthetic is given.
"With medical advances over the past 60 years, including the increased use of epidural anesthesia, we thought it was time to question the widespread ban on food and drink," explains Tranmer. "The use of general anesthesia during C-sections is low. So the risk of maternal death or illness is very, very low." "Food and fluid restriction can be stressful and uncomfortable for some pregnant women, especially for those who are in labor for more than 12 hours," she added. "A snack can provide some nourishment, comfort and much needed energy." Related:
Better baby bonding through vaginal deliveries
Push! Look Into My Eyes... Push! You're Getting Sleepy...
Money woes behind increase in preterm deliveries?
Source: Queen's University
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