Chapter 10: Giving good care in labor and birth
You may be able to get premixed packets of salts and sugar, such as Oresal,
for making rehydration drink. If you use premixed packets, be careful to mix them
correctly and taste the drink yourself first. It should be no saltier than tears.
You can also make the rehydration drink yourself at the labor, or carry the
dry ingredients already measured and mixed in little packets.
2 ways to make rehydration drink
With sugar and salt
(Molasses or honey can be used instead of sugar.)
In 1 liter of clean water, mix:
• half a level teaspoon of salt...............................................with 8 level teaspoons of sugar
(Before you add the sugar, taste the drink
to be sure it is no saltier than tears.)
With powdered cereal and salt
(Powdered rice is best. Or use finely ground maize, wheat flour,
sorghum, or cooked and mashed potatoes.)
In 1 liter of clean water, mix:
• half a level teaspoon of salt ����������������������������������������������with 8 heaping teaspoons (or
2 handfuls) of powdered cereal
(Before you add the cereal, taste the drink
to be sure it is no saltier than tears.)
Boil for 5 to 7 minutes to form a watery porridge. Cool the drink quickly
to give to the mother.
Taste the drink each time before you give it, to be sure it is not spoiled.
Cereal drinks can spoil in a few hours in hot weather.
• If possible, add half of a cup of fruit juice, coconut water, or mashed ripe banana to
either drink. This provides potassium, which may help the mother drink more liquid.
If you need to, change the drink to work in your area. If liter containers are not used,
adjust quantities to local forms of measurement. If you do not have a measuring cup
or spoons, use a pinch of salt and a small handful of sugar. If you have cereal gruel
for young children, add enough water to make it liquid and a pinch of salt, and
use that.
Note: If the mother feels hungry during labor, it is good for her to eat.
Choose foods that are easy to digest, like bread, rice, or yogurt.
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A Book for Midwives (2010)