Will I get an IV right away?

megan.e.jensen@gmail.com · November 2011

Does anyone know if it is standard procedure to get an IV as soon as you get settled in for delivery? I don't have Group B Strep, and I want to be able to move around while in labor as much as possible.

TimeRacer · November 2011

It depends on the hospital. Mine will do a Hep-Lock if you ask and have no need for IV fluids right away. but they also make sure that the IVs are portable (with the obvious exception of epidurals)

BUmama · November 2011

If you want an epidural they need to get fluid in before thats administered. Otherwise, ask if you can go with a Hep lock, so you'll have the IV line inserted, but not hooked up to anything. That way its there in case it's needed.

MrsG.060708 · November 2011

With both of my deliveries, I had them in right away--of course the 2nd time was because I was getting induced.

It was inserted fairly soon after getting settled into L&D the 1st time around, but I also planned on getting an epi, and like pp said, you need to have at least 1 bag of fluids before they'll insert an epi.

FWIW, you should still be able to move around quite a bit, even with the IV in. While I was hooked up during my induction, I was allowed to go to the bathroom and such...just had to roll the IV with me. A little awkward, but I was allowed to move.

Froggy76 · November 2011

I think it depends on your hospital. We were told during our childbirth class that standard procedure is to put in a heparin lock right away so that you're ready for an IV at any point.

sarahjames9 · November 2011

Well, I did today, and we weren't even sure I was delivering or not! I hated it. I did think it was unnecessary atleast until after the amnio. Not sure why they did it so soon.

smilelari · November 2011

It all depends on your hospital, provider and what you ask for. Standard procedure at my hospital is at least a saline lock for everyone, but because my provider is ok with it, and I requested it, I'll be going even without the saline lock unless it becomes medically necessary. If you plan to get an epidural you will likely be required to have some amount of IV fluids before they will give you the epidural

boobearmama · November 2011

My hospital puts in a Hep-Lock once you get to your labor and delivery room. Not when you are first admitted in the triage area. They only hook you up if you need fluids or meds.

MrsBini10 · November 2011

I got a hep-lock immediately but they didn't use it until deciding to start pitocin about 6 hours later.

MommaErica · November 2011

Depends upon your hospital, your doc and your preferences. At my hospital it is standard proceedure and that was fine with me. The nurses were extremely mindful of placing it in a spot that would not interfere with my moving around or changing position while pushing. I hardly knew it was there.

brewcitybride · November 2011

yes, because i was induced with dd, and i hated it. i was literally chained to my bed for like 24 hours.

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