Can eating dates improve the experience of childbirth? Original paper

In this meta-analysis, consuming dates was associated with improvements in several childbirth-related outcomes.

The association between consuming dates (Phoenix dactylifera L. fruit) and various outcomes in the context of childbirth.

The primary outcomes were the following:

• Gestation length
• Labor duration
• Bishop score (readiness of the cervix for delivery)
• Delivery mode (spontaneous/instrumental vaginal delivery)
• Frequency of need for labor induction

Approximately 4,300 pregnant or postpartum women.

In this meta-analysis of 48 nonrandomized and randomized controlled trials, the participants consumed dates during pregnancy or did not (control group). Thirty studies were conducted in Indonesia, 9 studies in Iran, 2 studies each in Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and 1 study each in Jordan, Malaysia, and Thailand.

The date group consumed dates (whole, syrup, or juice) for 1–8 weeks in the third trimester (a majority of the studies), 3–28 days postpartum, or during labor. The participants consumed 3–10 whole dates per day (a majority of the studies) or 15–45 mL of liquid per day. Some studies did not report specifics on date timing, dosage, or form. Both groups received the standard treatment for pregnancy and childbirth.

Date supplementation during late pregnancy improved gestation length, labor duration (latent phase, stage 3), Bishop score, frequency of spontaneous vaginal delivery, and frequency of need for labor induction (moderate–high quality evidence).

Four trials reported on adverse effects and reported no side effects from consuming dates.

The studies were conducted in Asian and Middle-Eastern countries, which reduces the applicability of the results to other countries.