The idea of keeping women “Nil per os” (NPO) during labor traces back to the 1940s with the pivotal work of Dr. Curtis Mendelson. His work on “aspiration pneumonitis” has kept women NPO during labor up to present day. But is this still evidence-based? Is it risky to allow women to have PO intake during an otherwise uncomplicated labor course? In this episode we will walk through history and provide an updated view on the risks and benefits of this historic practice.
