What Procedures Are Mandatory in Labor and Childbirth?
When it comes to labor and childbirth, many people assume they must follow hospital protocols without question. However, not all procedures are necessary or mandatory for every birth, and you have the right to make informed choices about your care. Here’s a look at six common interventions that are often presented as standard practice but are not always required for a safe and satisfying birth experience.
Look up all of the amazing, free information available through the Evidence Based Birth website. Is there solid evidence for why a certain thing is being asked of you? It’s your right to ask that and get an honest response!
1. Cervical Checks
Cervical checks, where a healthcare provider manually assesses the dilation of your cervix, are often performed during labor to monitor progress. However, they are not mandatory. Cervical checks can be uncomfortable and, if performed too frequently, may increase the risk of infection, especially after your water has broken.
Instead, you can ask for alternatives to gauge your progress, such as observing the intensity and frequency of contractions or the natural signs of transition (like an urge to push). You have the right to decline cervical checks or request them only when you feel comfortable.
2. Having an IV
Many hospitals automatically place an intravenous (IV) line in laboring patients for fluids or quick access to medications. While this can be helpful in certain situations, it's not necessary for everyone. Some hospitals use IVs routinely "just in case," but if you are having a low-risk labor and prefer mobility, you might opt for a “saline lock” or refuse the IV altogether.
Choosing not to have an IV allows you to move more freely, which can aid in managing labor pain naturally. Discuss this option with your provider if you'd like to avoid being tethered to equipment.
To read the info from Evidence Based Birth about having a routine IV, click here.
3. Continuous Fetal Monitoring
Continuous electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) is often used to track your baby’s heart rate during labor. While this sounds reassuring, it's not always necessary for healthy pregnancies. In fact, continuous monitoring can limit your movement and has been associated with higher rates of unnecessary interventions, such as C-sections.
Intermittent monitoring, where your baby’s heart rate is checked periodically, is a safe and effective alternative for many people. It allows for greater freedom to move and change positions, which can be beneficial for labor progress.
Read the info from Evidence Based Birth about continuous monitoring here.
Did you know that for many healthy pregnant folks and their babies, these things are optional?
Learn about things like this and so much more through my self-paced, online childbirth education course!
4. No Eating or Drinking During Labor
One of the most common hospital rules is that laboring people are not allowed to eat or drink, often out of fear of complications, should anesthesia become necessary. However, current research shows that in low-risk labors, light eating and drinking can help you maintain energy for the intense work of labor.
You can advocate for yourself by discussing this restriction with your provider ahead of time, especially if you’re aiming for a low-intervention or unmedicated birth. Many birthing people have successfully eaten or sipped fluids throughout labor without complications, helping them sustain the strength they need.
Guess what? The folks at Evidence Based Birth have info to share about this topic. Read it here.
5. Immediate Cord Clamping
Immediate clamping and cutting of the umbilical cord after birth has been a routine practice for years. However, research has shown that delayed cord clamping — waiting a few minutes before clamping the cord — allows more blood to flow from the placenta to your baby, which can boost their iron levels and improve long-term health.
Unless there is an urgent medical reason, you can request delayed cord clamping. This simple change can significantly benefit your baby without adding risk to your birth process.
6. Rushed Delivery of the Placenta
Once your baby is born, some providers may rush the delivery of the placenta by applying traction or administering medication. While this is sometimes necessary in cases of postpartum hemorrhage, many birthing people prefer a “physiological” or natural delivery of the placenta, allowing it to be expelled on its own.
You can choose to wait for the placenta to come out on its own as long as there are no complications. This can reduce unnecessary interventions and provide a more peaceful, unrushed conclusion to your birth.
Advocate for Your Choices!
Understanding that these procedures aren’t mandatory empowers you to take an active role in your birth experience. Before labor, discuss your preferences with your healthcare provider or birth team, and make sure your birth plan reflects your wishes. Surround yourself with support — whether that’s a partner, doula, or a friend — who can advocate for you in the moment.
Ultimately, every birth is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. By knowing your options, you can make informed decisions that align with your needs and goals for labor and delivery. Your birth, your body, your choice.
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