One of the benefits of labor induction is that it allows you to prepare yourself for your induction. You may require induction for medical reasons, or if you are past your due date. Your doctor will discuss with you the method of induction, and what you should be eating before coming. The types of food you can eat will depend on three things; your reasons for induction, chances of having a cesarean section, and how long the labor may take.
High-Risk Inductions
Sometimes women who present for induction of labor are at a high risk of requiring a cesarean section. If your baby is breech and you doctor is going to turn the baby head-down before inducing your labor. You should avoid eating anything after midnight before coming to the hospital.
Moderate-Risk Inductions
Many times the induction occurs if the baby is not growing well or if the mother has high blood pressure. There is likely a chance that a cesarean section will occur in this situation. However, you will have many hours of induction and should expect to have a vaginal delivery. In this situation, eating light foods such as broth or gelatin before labor induction is best for you.
Lower-Risk Inductions
Not all inductions are troublesome and are lower risks than others. For example, if you are hoping for natural childbirth and know that you are 4 centimeters dilated before your induction, your doctor may be okay with you having a normal breakfast before coming to the hospital. Sometimes the inductions may take days, especially if your cervix is long and closed. For this, you may need some medicines. And if you do your doctor may recommend you eat a regular meal before coming.
If you have any questions, please feel free to call iMD Health Care & Imaging at 281-459-9813 we would be more than happy to hear from you.