IV’s during unmedicated birth?

Question

So I plan to go completely natural and unmedicated with my labor (praying I can do it lol) but I’m wondering since I’m not planning on getting any type of meds can I tell them I don’t want an IV unless absolutely necessary later on? They are super uncomfortable for me and I’ve done a ton of research about going unmedicated, they all say you will progress much better and faster the more relaxed and comfortable you are so I feel it will interfere with my relaxation and make my progression more difficult if they force me to get one right away for no reason. Obviously I will ask my DR but just wanted to see if anyone had any insight for me on here.

Answer

You can ask for a saline lock, so that way if you end up needing the IV later that’s already in place!

Answer

Pretty sure it’s a medical necessity to have it. When/if shit hits the fan and your blood pressure goes to shit and you don’t have an IV in already it’s incredibly hard to get it in and you could potentially lose your life due to the time they’re wasting trying to get a catheter in. It’s not worth it and tbh I would be shocked if they will allow you to go without for safety and emergency reasons. You might could delay it but you never know what could happen, things can change instantly especially during something as unpredictable as labor.

Answer

I've had two unmedicated natural labors in the hospital and just had a saline lock both times. I was GBS positive both times so did have to have IV antibiotics intermittently, but otherwise I labored how I wanted - my first labor, I spent hours soaking in the tub, and my second labor I spent a lot of time walking the halls. Once the saline lock was placed I didn't really notice it much and I wasn't tethered to an IV so I could move freely.

Answer

Depends on the facility. Some require an IV to be placed so it is ready should an emergency arise and others do not. Definitely ask your doctor. I had one in each arm, but I also had to be put under for delivery.

Answer

Ask about it. With my first I was dehydrated (woke up in labor and no time to drink water) and they put an IV in to give me fluids. I loved my IV lol it took the nurse 3 tries to get it and it was such a wonderful distraction from contractions.
With my second I was dehydrated again (same story) and they gave me an IV but it came out when I was moving around and they didn’t bother putting another in.

Answer

At my hospital you wouldn't be forced to have an IV unless there is a potential problem

Answer

I dont do pain meds but get the saline lock in case something is needed in an emergency.  Its optional where I deliver but it is the safest option.

IV’s during unmedicated birth?

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