Pilot Trial Comparing Carbohydrate-Rich Sports Gel Versus Low-Sugar Hydrogel for Energy Support During Labor with Epidural in Low-Risk Pregnant Women

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effects of energy supplementation with carbohydrate-rich sports gels compared to a low-sugar sports drink during labor in low-risk pregnant women receiving epidural analgesia. The study aims to understand if carbohydrate solutions can improve maternal and neonatal outcomes such as labor duration and other obstetric factors. This pilot randomized, triple-blind clinical trial will provide preliminary data to inform a larger future trial. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either a high-carbohydrate sports gel or a low-carbohydrate hydrogel that matches the gel in appearance and texture. The first dose is given 60 minutes after epidural analgesia, followed by repeated doses every 3 hours during active labor, with up to four doses total. Water intake is encouraged throughout labor. Both interventions are administered as oral supplements to support energy needs during labor. During the study, participants will be monitored from epidural placement until delivery and postpartum. Researchers will assess labor duration, blood glucose levels in mothers and newborns, cardiotocography patterns, maternal vomiting, postpartum hemorrhage, neonatal Apgar scores, and maternal satisfaction. The study includes continuous observation and collection of clinical data to evaluate safety and effectiveness of the nutritional supplementation over the course of labor and shortly after birth.

Carbohydrate-Optimized Nutritional Solution Versus Electrolyte Hydration in Labor