It’s giving birth in a warm (ideally 97 degrees Fahrenheit) water bath. While some complete the whole process in water, others prefer to go into labor in water and come out for delivery. There are more takers for water birth each year. Even obstetricians and midwives increasingly believe that water birth reduces complications. Some parents are so comfortable with water birth that they feel confident to handle the delivery on their own. But supervision by a health care provider is highly recommended.
How does water birth benefit the baby?
A baby stays inside a sac of fluid before it is born, so water is thought to provide a smooth transition, during birth. There is hardly a need for forceps in this situation. When the stress is reduced, there is less chance for complications.
Why mums prefer water birth
- A hot tub of water is the place to relax, for anyone. When pregnant mothers slide into the water, they feel soothed and comforted than if they were on a bed.
- Labor is less painful and stressful in water, according to past experiences. That’s because water gives buoyancy, promoting efficient uterine contractions and good circulation. This provides more oxygen for the baby, too. Mothers who have experienced water birth are reluctant to try anything else in the future!
- Some new mums say that they quickly felt the urge to push and so their labor was short. Experts believe that warm water increases the woman’s energy.
- The buoyancy of the water makes the birthing mum feel lighter and better able to handle her body. New positions are possible this way. The mother is able to view what is going on, rather than when she is lying down completely.
- Warm water acts as a natural depressor of high blood pressure that occurs due to anxiety. It can also remove stress related hormones and stimulate production of endorphins (the body’s natural pain-killers)
- Mums are delighted that water birth leaves no ‘tread marks’. As the perineum becomes more supple and smooth in water, tearing is minimal. There is hardly a need for stitches.
- Physical relaxation means that a mum in labor is able to concentrate entirely on pushing the baby out.
- A tub of water gives a feel of privacy.
Are there any risks?
Research on water birth has some way to go. A recent research article noted that water entering mum’s blood stream is a possibility. Rarely, if the birthing is difficult due to some complication, the newborn may gasp for air, inhaling water into its lungs in the process. Care must be also taken to prevent the umbilical cord from being entangled with the baby.
When to re-think water birth
- When baby’s position is breeched
- If you have herpes, it easily transfers in water
- If you have excessive bleeding or any infection
- Having multiples- discuss with your obstetrician
- When in preterm labor (over two weeks ahead)
- If there is heavy meconium
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