Few experiences in life are more physically taxing than giving birth, yet for many years, women have been expected to endure this grueling process without proper nutrition. Well, get ready to toss those ice chips aside, because recent studies indicate that it’s perfectly acceptable for moms to indulge a bit during labor.
Just this week, the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) shared findings from a comprehensive study that concluded most women could actually benefit from eating while in labor. The outdated practice of offering only ice chips and popsicles stemmed from a fear of aspiration—essentially, the risk of inhaling food or liquids into the lungs during anesthesia. However, after sifting through a wealth of data, the ASA discovered that this concern is largely unfounded today. Modern anesthesia techniques, like spinal blocks, have significantly reduced the risk of aspiration. In fact, between 2005 and 2013, only one case of aspiration-related death was reported.
According to the ASA’s announcement, women in labor expend energy comparable to that of marathon runners. When you’re laboring for hours on end—10, 15, or even 20 hours—it’s crucial to replenish those calories, or you risk feeling utterly drained just when you need your strength the most.
I personally experienced labor for 14 and 22 hours with my two kids. The myth that subsequent labors are shorter? Not true for me. Both times, I reached a point where I felt completely spent. All I wanted was a decent sandwich and something other than flavored water. It was as if I were lost in a desert without food for days. I was so close to imagining Ryan Reynolds delivering me a pizza — that’s how desperate I felt!
In what other situation would we expect someone to perform intense physical labor for hours with nothing but sugar-free popsicles to curb their hunger? That’s downright cruel when you really think about it. We’re literally bringing new life into the world! If anything, let’s spice up those ice chips with some protein, shall we?
While I understand that guidelines are put in place for our safety, it’s refreshing to see them being reconsidered. Women who choose to labor at home or in birthing centers often have the freedom to eat as they please, yet hospitals have been slow to adapt. Hopefully, as more research comes to light, they will start offering snacks and meals to avoid potential riots by hungry laboring moms tipping over vending machines.
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In summary, it’s time to rethink the outdated rules surrounding eating during labor. With new evidence supporting the benefits of nourishment for laboring women, hospitals should catch up and start providing better food options. After all, giving birth is hard enough without the added challenge of starving!
Keyphrase: Eating During Labor
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