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Water births involve a woman sitting in warm water during labor, which can mimic the amniotic fluid and ease the transition for the baby. It can also help the mother feel more in control and relaxed. However, it is not recommended for all women, such as those with infections or preterm labor.
Water births are a type of labor method in which a woman sits in a tub or shallow pool of warm water, supervised by a midwife or doctor. Water birth is based on the idea that warm water mimics the amniotic fluid that surrounds a baby in the womb and eases the transition into the outside world. It is also promoted as helping the mother feel more in control of the birth than the doctor.
Proponents of the water birth process believe that warm water is relaxing and can boost a woman’s energy levels, especially during the final stages of labor. Diving is thought to improve blood circulation and reduce the pain of uterine contractions. Water can also relax the pelvic muscles and vaginal opening to prevent tearing or other complications.
Those who promote water births believe that water also has psychological benefits. Being surrounded by warm water can help a woman focus mentally on giving birth rather than being distracted by physical pain. Sitting in a birthing pool can give a woman a feeling of privacy instead of lying on a raised hospital bed.
Water births begin by filling a birthing pool, such as an inflatable pool or small tub, with warm water. Ideally, the water temperature is heated to match the pregnant woman’s body temperature. Women can choose to sit in the pool at any stage of labor except the very beginning.
If your uterine contractions haven’t established a regular pattern, sitting in a birthing pool can over-relax your body and potentially interrupt labor. Once a woman’s contractions are regular, she can sit in the birthing pool. Some doctors and midwives believe that hot water can cause the cervix to dilate too quickly, so women may be advised to wait for the cervix to dilate 5 centimeters before submerging in the water.
Once a woman’s cervix is dilated to 10 centimeters, she can usually begin to push the baby into the water. The caregiver will generally remove the baby from the water within 10 seconds of delivery. Leaving your baby underwater for longer periods of time can potentially cause oxygen deprivation if the umbilical cord doesn’t supply an adequate amount.
Water parts are not recommended for all women. Pregnant women with infections, especially herpes, can spread the infection through water. Water birth can also be difficult for multiple births or for single babies who are positioned breech with their bottoms or feet down. Preterm labor can also face complications in water deliveries.
