Labour and lunch: new study checks if contractions slow stomach emptying
NCT ID NCT03490682
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026
Summary
This study looked at whether being in labour affects how quickly a light meal (flavoured yoghurt) leaves the stomach. Researchers used ultrasound to measure stomach emptying in 43 women: those in labour with or without epidural, pregnant women not in labour, and non-pregnant women. The goal is to provide data that could help clarify conflicting guidelines on eating during labour.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
What this could lead to
If successful, this study could provide evidence to update guidelines on whether women in labour can safely eat light food.
What could go wrong
This is a small observational study (43 participants) that only measures stomach emptying, not safety outcomes like aspiration. Results may not apply to all women or different foods.
Disclaimer
Read more
Show less
This is a summary of
the original study
.
Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
Get updates
Get notified about this study
Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for HEALTHY VOLUNTEERS are added.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Show contact details
Enter your email to view the contact information for this study.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Locations
-
Hospices Civils de Lyon
Bron, 69500, France