The routine insertion of an IV cannula or drip is a common recommendation. The cannula is placed into your vein when you arrive at the hospital in labour (a small plastic tube that also can be used to attach a drip to if needed). It is aimed at making it easier and quicker to put up a drip, administer fluids and a general anaesthetic if needed in the rare case that a uterine rupture occurs.
Some caregivers recommend giving fluids through the drip throughout the labour, but there is no research evidence to support this practice, unless you are dehydrated and
ketotic. You should be able to eat and drink freely, like any other labouring woman.
The cannula is inserted into the vein in the woman's arm with a needle. After the tube is put in place the needle is removed. The cannula is then taped down (sitting about 1 - 2 centimetres out of the skin). It is normally covered with a plastic dressing so that the woman is not restricted in using the bath or shower.
You may ask for it to be put in your left arm if you are right handed or visa versa. Some women decline to have a cannula inserted, saying that medical emergencies are possible for all women in labour, and it is not a standard requirement for them to have a cannula. If you were planning to birth at home, a cannula would unlikely be put in.
Blood for group and hold
About 10 to 20 mls of blood may be taken from your vein when you arrive at the hospital to send to the pathologist for what is called a 'group and hold' (the blood can be taken out of the IV cannula if you have one inserted). This test is for your blood to be matched with donor blood for compatibility, and held in storage for about 24 to 48 hours, in case you need an urgent blood transfusion. The same test is done routinely for every woman having a Caesarean birth.