A cannula is a small plastic tube that is placed in your hand or arm with the…

A cannula is a small plastic tube that is placed in your hand or arm with the intention of delivering fluids into your system. These fluids may or may not contain drugs.

The world health organisation do not recommend that cannulas are used routinely, women should be able to drink freely during labour unless there is a real risk to them doing so.

Why might you be offered a cannula?

If you have an epidural If you are having a caesarean If your labour is being induced If you are diabetic and on a sliding scale. If you have previously had post partum haemorrhage(s) If you need IV drugs for any reason

As you can see I agreed to a routine cannula for my vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC) back in Jan 2019. I also had my labour induced through breaking my waters, which was enough for contractions to begin so I didn't need the synthetic oxytocin drip. It was often given 'just incase' you needed another caesarean.

The recommendations changed shortly after and now is not routinely offered. If a repeat caesarean is indicated, a cannula can be placed at the time.

Did you have a cannula in labour?