When you arrive at a hospital to give birth, it is common for staff to suggest or even routinely start an IV line. This is often done “just in case” something happens and medications or fluids need to be administered quickly. But is it always necessary? And are there alternatives that allow for more freedom and comfort during birth?
At Hypnobabies, we believe that understanding your options is key to having an empowered birth experience. Here is what 
you need to know about continuous IV fluids, saline locks, and other choices available to you.
What Is an IV and Why Is It Routinely Used?
An IV (intravenous line) is a small catheter placed into a vein, usually in your hand or arm, to provide direct access for fluids or medications. Hospitals often insert an IV during admission, suggesting that it helps maintain hydration and provides easy access for medications “if something should happen.”
However, research shows no evidence that routine IV fluids are necessary or beneficial during normal, healthy birthing. Despite this, many birthing moms receive IV fluids automatically, sometimes even without explicit consent.
Benefits of IV Fluids (Continuous)
IV fluids can be helpful in specific situations, such as:
Dehydration or fatigue: IV fluids can help restore hydration and energy if a birthing mom is exhausted or unable to drink fluids.
Supporting the baby: In rare cases where a baby shows signs of distress (such as lower heart tones), IV fluids can increase amniotic fluid levels, providing extra cushioning and protection.
Risks of IV Fluids (Continuous)
Although they may seem harmless, IV fluids come with potential downsides: 
Fluid overload: Excess fluid in the bloodstream can lead to swelling (edema) in both mom and baby, even affecting the lungs.
Dilution of blood: IV fluids can thin the blood’s clotting ability, reducing red blood cells per volume. This means less oxygen for both the baby and the uterus, and weaker pressure waves (contractions).
Increased bleeding: Low blood counts caused by overhydration can lead to excess bleeding after birth.
Breastfeeding challenges: Edema in the breasts can cause severe engorgement, making it harder for the baby to latch properly.
Reduced mobility and comfort: Managing IV tubing and dragging an IV pole can interfere with free movement, which is often essential for comfort and progression of labor.
Alternatives to Routine IVs
For most healthy pregnancies and births, hydration and energy can be maintained naturally:
Drink water, juice, or broth between pressure waves.
Suck on ice chips if you do not feel like drinking.
Eat light snacks during early and active birthing time to keep energy levels steady.
By staying hydrated and nourished, you can often avoid the need for IV fluids entirely.
Saline Locks: A Middle Ground
A saline lock is a small IV catheter inserted into a vein but not connected to continuous fluids. It is capped with a valve, so medications or fluids can be given quickly if needed, without the restriction of tubing and a fluid bag. 
Pros: It provides quick access to a vein while still allowing more mobility and comfort compared to a continuous IV.
Cons: Like continuous IVs, there is little evidence that saline locks are needed in healthy, low-risk births. However, some parents choose them for peace of mind as a compromise.
A Hypnobabies Student’s Experience
Hypno-Mom Amber shared her experience without IV fluids compared to her friend’s experience with them:
“The education I learned in my Hypnobabies class was incredible. If I had not learned that the saline lock was unnecessary in most cases, I would have left the hospital weighing more than when I went in, just like my non-Hypnobabies friend. She was so swollen from the saline, and for no reason! Hypnobabies taught me to take ownership of my baby’s birth, and that has empowered me to be more confident in trusting my instincts when it comes to raising my child.”
You Are Always in Charge
It is important to remember that you are always in charge of what happens to your body and your baby. Hospitals may have “standard procedures,” but you have the right to decline a routine IV or saline lock if you deem it unnecessary for your situation. Your birth plan can include preferences for oral hydration and mobility instead.
Birth is your experience. You have the right to say yes, no, or ask for alternatives and to choose what is best for you and your baby.
🧷 Want to feel more prepared for all aspects of pregnancy and birth?
Explore our Hypnobabies Hypnobirthing Course for deeply relaxing, empowering tools that support your entire journey, from prenatal testing to your birthing day and beyond.
