Hydration is one of the most important but overlooked parts of labor preparation. Whether you’re planning for an unmedicated birth, a hospital delivery, or a home birth, staying hydrated during labor helps contractions stay effective, keeps energy levels stable, and reduces the risk of complications.
I remember how thirsty I was during labor, and the right drinks made a huge difference in how I felt. Many moms swear by homemade labor-aid drinks, electrolyte beverages, and coconut water to stay energized while their bodies work through contractions. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best drinks for labor, why hydration is essential, and how to make your own labor-aid drink with Rescue Remedy for added relaxation.
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This article is for informational purposes only and is based on research and personal experience. It is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before beginning any new exercise routine, using a birthing ball, or making decisions about your pregnancy and birth plan.
Why Hydration During Labor is So Important
During labor, your body is working hard. Just like in an endurance workout, muscles need hydration and electrolytes to function properly, and your uterus is a muscle. Dehydration can lead to weaker contractions, longer labor, and exhaustion, which is why it’s important to drink fluids consistently throughout labor.
Benefits of Staying Hydrated During Labor
- Helps contractions stay strong and effective
- Reduces risk of exhaustion and dehydration-related stalls
- Supports circulation, keeping oxygen flowing to baby
- Helps prevent nausea, dizziness, and muscle cramps
- Aids in postpartum recovery by maintaining fluid balance
📌 Pro Tip: If you’re planning a hospital birth, some providers have restrictions on drinking fluids during labor. Talk to your provider ahead of time to see what’s allowed or bring clear liquids like coconut water or an electrolyte drink for small sips when needed.
Best Drinks for Labor: Hydrating & Energizing Options
Here are some of the best drinks for labor to keep you feeling strong and supported.
Labor-Aid: The Best Natural Electrolyte Drink for Birth
Labor-aid is a homemade electrolyte drink that helps replenish minerals, support energy levels, and keep contractions working efficiently. Many moms prefer this over store-bought sports drinks since it’s made with natural ingredients and no artificial sugars.
Labor-Aid Recipe with Rescue Remedy
- 2 cups coconut water (natural electrolytes)
- 1 cup fresh-squeezed lemon juice (vitamin C & energy boost)
- 2 tablespoons raw honey or maple syrup (natural sugars for energy)
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (electrolytes & fluid retention)
- A few drops of Rescue Remedy (flower essence for relaxation)
- Filtered water to taste
How to Make It:
- Mix all ingredients together in a large mason jar or water bottle.
- Chill in the fridge or store in a freezer-safe bottle for easy grab-and-go.
- Sip throughout labor to stay hydrated and energized.
Coconut Water: Natural Electrolytes Without Additives
Coconut water is one of the best natural sources of hydration because it’s packed with electrolytes like potassium, magnesium, and sodium, which support muscle function during contractions.
- Hydrating without artificial sugars
- Contains electrolytes for balanced fluid levels
- Easy on the stomach if nausea occurs
📌 Look for organic, no-added-sugar coconut water for the best benefits. You can usually pick these up from Costco or your local Organic grocery.
Herbal Tea for Relaxation & Energy
Certain herbal teas can be incredibly beneficial during labor. They provide warmth, hydration, and extra nutrients to support the birthing process.
- Red Raspberry Leaf Tea – Strengthens the uterus and may help contractions stay strong.
- Peppermint Tea – Helps with nausea and digestion.
- Chamomile or Lemon Balm Tea – Encourages relaxation and reduces stress.
📌 A pregnancy-safe herbal tea blend (like Pink Stork’s Labor Prep Tea) is a great addition to your birth bag. Find it here.
Bone Broth for a Warm, Nourishing Energy Boost
If you’re in long labor or feeling weak, sipping on warm bone broth can be an incredible way to restore energy and provide essential minerals.
- Contains collagen and amino acids for postpartum healing
- Helps balance blood sugar if you haven’t eaten in a while
- Supports digestion and gut health
📌 Kettle & Fire Bone Broth is a great store-bought option with organic, high-quality ingredients. Find it here.
Electrolyte Powders & Drinks for Quick Hydration
If you prefer ready-made electrolyte drinks, opt for low-sugar, high-quality brands instead of traditional sports drinks like Gatorade.
- LMNT Electrolytes – Zero sugar, high in sodium, potassium, and magnesium.
- Liquid IV – Hydrates faster than water alone, with added B vitamins.
- Nuun Hydration Tablets – Easy-to-use electrolyte tablets with clean ingredients.
How to Stay Hydrated During Labor
Now that you know what to drink during labor, here’s how to make sure you stay hydrated while focusing on contractions.
- Drink small amounts consistently – Sipping every 15-20 minutes helps prevent dehydration.
- Use a straw for easy drinking – A large, insulated water bottle with a straw makes it easier to drink between contractions.
- Alternate between different drinks – If one flavor isn’t appealing during labor, switch it up.
- Eat water-rich foods if allowed – Ice chips, fresh fruit, or popsicles can help hydration.
📌 A large, insulated straw cup (like a Stanley or Hydro Flask) is a must-have for labor and postpartum. This is the one I have and I love it!
Be Prepared with the Best Drinks for Labor
Hydration plays a crucial role in labor by keeping contractions effective, reducing fatigue, and preventing complications. By preparing in advance with labor-aid, coconut water, electrolyte drinks, and herbal teas, you can stay hydrated and energized throughout birth.
The Ultimate Pregnancy & Postpartum Checklist
Pregnancy and postpartum can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out alone! This easy-to-follow checklist walks you through every step, from preconception to postpartum recovery, so you can feel prepared, confident, and stress-free. Plus, it’s packed with tips, must-haves, and resources to make mom life easier.
Want to make sure you have everything for labor & postpartum? Download my Free Pregnancy & Postpartum Checklist to make sure you’re fully prepared!
And if you want more pregnancy & birth prep tips, make sure to follow me on @motherofajourney on Instagram and TikTok!
