Is an IV a requirement during labor

It is a routine in many hospitals to start an IV when a pregnant woman in labor  is admitted to the hospital.  You will definitely need one for hydration if you cant keep fluids down or one to get antibiotics  if you test positive for Group B strep. You will also need  one  if you

•  want  a spinal or epidural
• need oxytocin (pitocin)
• have any health problems or pregnancy complications

However if your pregnancy has been free from complications and no complication is expected during labor, you can hold off on an IV with your doctor’s approval. This makes it easier to move around when need be without worrying about a tubing and IV pole.

You also have the option of heparin or saline lock attached to your IV catheter (the part that’s inserted into the vein). This small device will keep the blood in the catheter from clotting. It also has a portal  so caregivers can plug in a tubing  anytime. This means you can get medications or fluids whenever the need arises  and you wont have to be tethered to an IV pole.

Women who choose unmedicated births  do not welcome the idea of an IV. This is because it limits their movements  and increases their discomfort . Most women also believe  it  is associated with an illness which is unsettling for someone trying to have  a natural experience .