What to Eat and Drink During Labor

Eating and drinking during labor can help you feel more comfortable and give you the energy you need to give birth. Labor is a physical task that requires stamina and restricting your food intake may cause stress, nausea, vomiting or headaches. 

If you’re giving birth at a hospital or birth center it’s best to discuss their food and beverage policy well in advance, so you know your options.

Early Labor

Early labor is a good opportunity to get nourishment and fuel yourself with foods that will sustain you for several hours. When choosing foods, aim for light snacks that contain complex carbs, healthy fat and protein to stabilize your blood sugar levels.

Here are some suggestions of what you can consume that is still relatively light: 

  • Healthy bars like RX, Epic, or Lara Bars

  • Greek Yogurt. If you tolerate dairy.

  • Nuts or dried fruit

  • Quinoa and avocado

  • Nut butter packets and whole grain toast 

  • Fresh Fruit

  • Frozen grapes or berries

  • Fruit smoothie

Smoothies can be a great option because they are easy to digest and convenient. Here are two of our favorite recipes! 

 
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During Labor

It’s natural that your appetite will decrease as you go into the active stages of labor. If you’re able to eat small portions of easily digestible foods it can help you maintain your strength. It’s a good idea to have a few easy options on hand. Here are some examples:

  • Raw honey, take a spoonful for a boost of energy

  • Frozen banana chunks, grapes, or blueberries, for a refreshing treat

  • Dried fruit 

  • Homemade Fruit Popsicles 

It’s extremely important to stay hydrated during labor. Even when you don’t feel like drinking, continue to take small sips on one or more of the following: 

  • Water

  • Coconut water

  • 100% Juice without corn syrup and artificial coloring 

  • Herbal tea with honey 

  • Bone Broth 

  • Clean juice/electrolyte beverages 

Now that you know some good options of food to bring, here are some foods to avoid during labor. 

  • High sugar and fat foods like cake, donuts and cookies. 

  • Greasy, fast food

  • Acidic foods that may upset your stomach

  • Foods with a very potent smell 

Don’t forget about the support system you are bringing with you! Anyone attending your birth will need to have food to keep their mood and motivation up while encouraging you. 

What did you eat during your labor? Is there anything you prepared that you didn’t eat or want during labor?


Pregnancy Care, Women's HealthSprigs Lifelabor, pregnancyComment