Can You Eat While You’re in Labor?

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By Dr. Rakhee Patel | Updated on Jun 26, 2024
Image for article Can You Eat While You’re in Labor?

Whether or not you can eat during labor depends on your circumstances and your healthcare provider's recommendations. 

If you’re having a low-risk labor and aren't planning on having an epidural or a C-section, you might be allowed to eat light snacks. However, many hospitals restrict food intake during labor to reduce the risk of aspiration (inhaling your food and potentially choking on it) in case anesthesia is needed, like if you need an emergency C-section. Light snacks like toast or fruit might be allowed early on, but it's always best to check with your provider. 

Staying hydrated with clear fluids is usually encouraged1  since it’ll help keep your energy up without the risks associated with a full stomach.

Pregnant woman holding her stomach on a bed with a plant in the background

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  1. Committee Opinion"Approaches to Limit Intervention During Labor and Birth"The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, vol. 766Feb 1, 2017https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2019/02/approaches-to-limit-intervention-during-labor-and-birth.


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Updated on Jun 26, 2024

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Can You Eat While You’re in Labor?

 Rakhee  Patel Profile Photo
By Dr. Rakhee Patel | Updated on Jun 26, 2024
Image for article Can You Eat While You’re in Labor?

Whether or not you can eat during labor depends on your circumstances and your healthcare provider's recommendations. 

If you’re having a low-risk labor and aren't planning on having an epidural or a C-section, you might be allowed to eat light snacks. However, many hospitals restrict food intake during labor to reduce the risk of aspiration (inhaling your food and potentially choking on it) in case anesthesia is needed, like if you need an emergency C-section. Light snacks like toast or fruit might be allowed early on, but it's always best to check with your provider. 

Staying hydrated with clear fluids is usually encouraged1  since it’ll help keep your energy up without the risks associated with a full stomach.

Pregnant woman holding her stomach on a bed with a plant in the background

Want evidence-based health & wellness advice for fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum delivered to your inbox?

Your privacy is important to us. By subscribing you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Expectful uses only high-quality sources, including academic research institutions, medical associations, and subject matter experts.

  1. Committee Opinion"Approaches to Limit Intervention During Labor and Birth"The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, vol. 766Feb 1, 2017https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2019/02/approaches-to-limit-intervention-during-labor-and-birth.


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