Immobility
It is impossible to move around when you are flat on your back. It’s even more difficult if you have internal and external fetal monitors attached to your body, an IV running into your arm and after a narcotic drug was given to “take the edge off.” It goes without saying, that if you had an epidural, you would not be going anywhere at all as your legs would have no feeling and even “walking epidurals” are misleading because even if you are able to walk, the equipment makes it too difficult and odds are the staff would never allow it.
Some hospitals encourage walking and moving around. Others do not like you to be out of your room, which may be quite small and loaded with equipment, making any real walking about nearly impossible. Studies have shown that moving about and being upright and changing positions can shorten labor.
Intravenous Therapy Drip
Most hospitals routinely use IV line birth interventions. Usually they do this because they forbid food (and sometimes drink) during labor. This has negative consequences above and beyond the IV. This is also performed when the hospital protocols call for an intravenous line to be available if any medication needs to be administrated.
Having the IV inserted is painful for many women. The cold fluids can cause pain and irritation. The IV pole limits movement. Excess fluids can cause you to have to go the bathroom constantly.
You’ll have more energy during labor if you’re not restricted from food or drink. It makes no sense to require you to do extensive and exhausting work with no food or drink! IV lines do not solve this problem and create new problems.
