RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Effect of Oral Carbohydrate Intake > 44kCal Per Hour During Labour on the Rate of Instrumental Vaginal Delivery

This study is investigating if having extra carbohydrates (like sugars from food or drinks) during labour can make it less likely for women to need assisted delivery, where doctors use tools like forceps or a vacuum. Labour is a lot like intense exercise, requiring energy. Researchers believe that eating or drinking more calories during this time might give mums more energy, reduce tiredness, and help them push more effectively. Earlier research hinted at this benefit, and this new study aims to get a clearer answer by comparing women who get extra calories with those who only have water during labour.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

University Hospital, Caen

Enrolment target

600

Start

11 Feb 2022

Estimated completion

03 Sep 2028

Delivery Complication Labor Long Pregnancy Related

What is this study about?

Imagine labour as a marathon – it demands a lot of energy and can be very tiring. Just like athletes eat and drink during a long race to keep their energy up, this study is exploring whether having more energy (in the form of carbohydrates) during labour can make a difference for mums-to-be. The main goal is to see if this extra energy helps reduce the chances of needing instruments like forceps or a vacuum pump to assist with the birth.

Doctors sometimes use instruments if labour isn't progressing well or if the mother is too tired to push effectively. Researchers think that by giving mums more energy through carbohydrate-rich food or drink, they might feel stronger and less exhausted. This could potentially help them give birth naturally, without the need for these assisted methods.

This study hopes to build on earlier research that suggested a link between carbohydrate intake and a lower chance of needing assisted delivery. By carefully comparing women who receive extra calories with those who only have water, they aim to find out if this simple approach can make a positive difference to the birth experience.

Key takeaways

This study explores if extra calories during labour can reduce the need for assisted birth.
It compares carbohydrate intake to having only water during labour.
The goal is to see if more energy helps mums push more effectively.
It's for first-time mums with uncomplicated single pregnancies.
Participation involves following a specific dietary plan during labour for study purposes.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for first-time mums who are pregnant with one baby and have a healthy, uncomplicated pregnancy. You should be expecting to have a vaginal birth without any medical reasons that prevent you from pushing during labour.

You wouldn't be able to join if you're already scheduled for a C-section, if your baby is due early (before 37 weeks), or if your labour has progressed too far (cervix more than 8cm open) when you're considered for the study. Also, if you have certain health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease, or a very high BMI (body mass index over 40), this study wouldn't be suitable.

Finally, if you're planning to have your labour started artificially (induced), this study isn't for you. You also need to be aged between 18 and 60.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you having your first baby?
Are you pregnant with only one baby?
Is your pregnancy healthy and without major complications?
Are you planning to have a vaginal birth?
Are you between 18 and 60 years old?
Do you not have diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you'll be randomly put into one of two groups: one group will receive carbohydrate-rich drinks or food delivering more than 44 calories per hour during labour, and the other group will only have water. The study will look at how your labour progresses and whether you need assistance to deliver your baby. There will be no specific medication involved beyond standard labour care, and the study will monitor your delivery and recovery. The total duration of your participation would cover your labour and delivery.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in this study might offer the potential benefit of helping researchers understand if certain nutritional support during labour can reduce the need for assisted delivery. However, there are no guaranteed personal benefits from taking part. The risks are generally low, as the intervention involves common dietary intake during labour. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Caen University Hospital
Verified postcode
Caen, France· Recruiting

Common questions

What does 'instrumental vaginal delivery' mean?

It means the doctor uses special tools like forceps or a vacuum pump to help deliver the baby.

What kind of 'carbohydrates' are we talking about?

These would likely be sugary drinks or foods that provide quick energy during labour.

Will I know if I'm getting carbohydrates or just water?

Sometimes in these studies, participants don't know which group they are in to ensure fair results, but the study team will explain.

Is it safe to eat during labour?

Guidelines on eating during labour have changed. This study aims to gather more information on a specific type of intake. Your medical team will ensure your safety.

Who is funding this research?

The study details don't mention the specific funder, but research studies are often funded by grants or institutions.

How to find out more

jean-luc hanouz

hanouz-jl@chu-caen.fr 33 2 31 06 47 36 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.