Can I eat before childbirth?
Let’s say you have started labor — your water has broken or you are having regular contractions. Should you have a snack on the way to the hospital?
If a vaginal birth is planned
Many doctors suggest that you drink small amounts of water or broth, or eat a couple of crackers or a piece of chocolate. Of course, when the contractions become intense, there will be no time to eat and you will have no desire to eat.
Many studies, however, show that you can drink water any time during labor — not just “wetting your lips” and not sucking on an ice cube. Drinking water does not affect the birthing process in any way, but it eliminates the thirst that is completely unnecessary [1].
However, it is not yet clear whether mothers should drink sugary drinks during childbirth. There is evidence that drinking high-carb drinks, such as soda, during childbirth significantly increases the likelihood of a cesarean section. But the mechanism is still unclear and the statistics are insufficient [1].
If a cesarean section is planned or is likely to occur
There are situations when doctors, almost until the very last moment, cannot say whether surgery is needed or not. In this case, immediately after the onset of contractions, it is better to stop eating.
In the case of a planned cesarean, you can eat eight hours before the operation. Follow your doctor's suggestions about what to eat before surgery. They may suggest something very light. For example, wheat bread toast and a glass of milk. You can drink water up to two hours before surgery.
