Is it Normal to be Nauseous during Labor?

It is not uncommon at all for a woman to feel nauseous during labor. This is particularly true during the active phase of labor. However, nausea can occur at any time during labor, and should be considered as being relatively normal.

One of the important things to remember about labor is that you need to stay well nourished during labor, and to avoid dehydration. Eating small and frequent meals or snacks during labor can help you to load complex carbohydrates, such as pasta and grains, into your system. These will give you a steady and slow release of energy that you will need during the physically difficult portions of labor. Late in labor, you will want to switch to simple carbohydrates, such as fruits, honey, and juices or even energy bars.

Many mothers feel at least a little nauseous during labor, and don’t want to eat. They may find food to be unappetizing. To help with this, make sure to bring foods that are friendly to your stomach, and that are easy to digest. Keep away from fatty or fried foods, foods that you know will give you gas, and carbonated beverages. These types of foods put extra strain on your internal organs during a time when there’s already plenty of strain.

You should make sure to keep from getting dehydrated, as well. Dehydration is a common cause of being nauseous during labor. Make sure you get at least an 8 oz glass of water during early labor, and try to drink just a sip in between your contractions. Some mothers choose to use energy drinks such as Gatorade, which have electrolytes, carbohydrates, and minerals that will help your body chemistry to stay balanced, as well as avoiding nausea by avoiding dehydration.

If you are too nauseous during labor to eat or drink, your health care provider may suggest that you receive fluids through an I.V. Generally speaking, your health care provider will not want to use any anti-nausea medications during labor if they can be avoided.