Congratulations! At 39 weeks, you have made it to a full-term pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has five different names for labor based on when an infant is delivered. Preterm labor happens before 37 weeks gestation, while early-term labor can happen between 37- and 39-weeks’ gestation. Full-term childbirth happens between 39- and 41 weeks gestation and is the usual timeframe for women to deliver. Those that deliver between 41- and 42 weeks gestation are considered late-term deliveries. Any pregnancy that goes beyond 42 weeks is considered a post-term pregnancy and requires collaboration with your healthcare team to determine when is best to deliver your baby.
Research suggests that delivering a child has similar energy and caloric demands as that of running a marathon. While there is still not enough evidence to support certain foods that induce labor, it is recommended to continue eating balanced meals before contractions start. Eating foods rich in carbohydrates, lean protein, and healthy fats can support the increased energy demand of delivering a baby. While walking is believed to help speed up the early stages of labor, there is no significant scientific evidence to prove this. However, it has been proved that women who are physically active throughout their pregnancy spend a shorter amount of time in active labor.
Some OB/GYNs recommend not eating during labor once the first contractions begin. It is believed that eating and drinking during delivery increases the risk of choking, especially if emergency anesthesia is needed. Recent research has changed this practice for low-risk pregnancies. Some healthcare providers may allow you to eat during delivery, depending on what stage you are in. It is essential to talk with your healthcare team to confirm what is allowed in your delivery room. If allowed, some recommended foods and drinks include:
Planning snacks after delivery is a great way to start fueling your recovery and regaining your energy. Hospitals or birth centers are not always able to provide snacks in between meals or throughout the night, so taking some with you can go a long way. Aim for snacks that are easily digested and light on the stomach since it may be 2 to 3 days after you deliver that you are able to pass a bowel movement.
Labor can be broken into three stages.