The practice of restricting food and drink during labor (known as “NPO” or nil per os—nothing by mouth) began decades ago, based on a concern about aspiration (inhaling food/stomach contents) in the rare event a person needed general anesthesia for an emergency C-section.
However, modern obstetrics rarely uses general anesthesia, and extensive research has shown that for low-risk pregnancies—the type of care provided by midwives—the risk of aspiration is extremely low, and the benefits of nourishment are high.
New Traditions Midwifery Philosophy: Recognizing that labor is an athletic event, New Traditions Midwifery supports and encourages clients to listen to their bodies and consume nourishing food and fluids as desired throughout the labor process to maintain strength and stamina.
Why Nourishment is Essential in Labor
Your uterus is a large, powerful muscle, and like any muscle performing strenuous work, it requires energy (calories) and hydration to function efficiently.
1. Maintaining Energy and Stamina
- Labor is a Marathon: First-time labors can easily last 12 to 24 hours or longer. Attempting this immense physical feat while fasting can lead to exhaustion, fatigue, and lower blood sugar.
- Fuel for the Uterus: Adequate carbohydrate intake and hydration ensure the uterine muscle has the necessary glucose (fuel) to contract strongly and effectively. Research even suggests that being well-nourished may contribute to shorter labor times.
2. Avoiding Dehydration and Exhaustion
- Hydration is Key: Dehydration can make contractions feel more painful, can lead to maternal fever, and can compromise circulation. Access to clear fluids (water, electrolyte drinks, coconut water, juice) is essential for maintaining hydration.
- Emotional Comfort and Control: The simple act of being allowed to eat and drink what you crave and when you need it increases your feelings of comfort, autonomy, and control over your birth experience.
3. Preventing High-Stress Hormones
- Being hungry, thirsty, and feeling restricted can increase your levels of stress hormones (catecholamines), which can interfere with the production of the labor-driving hormone, Oxytocin, potentially slowing or stalling labor progress.
What to Eat and Drink
While midwives encourage listening to your cravings, the focus is generally on easily digestible foods and high-energy fluids, especially in active labor, as digestion naturally slows down during intense contractions.
| Recommended Focus (Especially in Early Labor) | Recommended Focus (Active Labor/Fluids) |
|---|---|
| Complex Carbohydrates & Protein: Toast with jam, rice, oatmeal, pasta, granola bars, yogurt, crackers with nut butter, broth. | Quick Energy & Hydration: Coconut water, honey sticks, fruit juice (diluted), simple broths (chicken/veggie), sports drinks (like Labor-Ade), popsicles, jello, dried fruit. |
By encouraging eating and drinking, New Traditions Midwifery treats the birthing person as an athlete, ensuring they have the strength and endurance needed for a vigorous, successful birth.
