Ice chips are good during labor as they can help provide you with hydration and a cooling sensation, which can also be comforting to you during the physical exertion that occurs during labor.
Traditionally women in labor were often restricted to only ice chips during labor, but now current guidelines are also becoming much more liberal and also now allows for drinking clear liquids and in some cases even light meals.
Ice chips provide you a good way of staying hydrated, without overwhelming your stomach, especially when any solid food is restricted.
And the cooling sensation of the ice chips also are soothing during the contractions during labor and helps to manage any discomfort.
And ice chips are a low risk option for hydration, especially when compared to larger volumes of liquids or solid foods which could result in aspiration or inhaling of food or liquid into the lungs.
When I was in labor I used ice chips, although some women may need more than just the ice chips for hydration during labor.
If you need more than just ice chips during labor your doctor can help you get something more suitable along with the ice chips if needed.