What is a water birth?
The act of giving birth in water is so incredibly simple. A
mother submerges herself in warm, body temperature water during her labour. If
she feels like giving birth in that warm buoyant state, there is no need to ask
her to leave the water.
What about the baby ?
The baby has grown in a fluid environment for the past 9 months. Babies
adjust very well to being born in a birth pool. water birth is miraculous.
Benefits of Water Birth
Better relaxation: Water aids in relaxation. There is a reason that many
women enjoy a long, relaxing soak in the tub after a long day. As you relax in
the warmth of the water, your cares seem to melt away.
Relaxation is very important during labour. When the mother is tense, the
tension can actually slow the progress of labour. Relaxing through the
contractions is much more effective. Pain relief: Women report that the pain is
greatly reduced when they labor and deliver in the water. Some experienced
mothers report that the water was nearly as effective as medicinal pain
relievers or epidurals. Water works by blocking the pain impulses in the nerves
of the body. Water is an effective alternative to pain medications for women
wanting a drug free birth.
Reduced abdominal pressure: Much of the pain in labor is caused by
increased pressure in the abdomen. As the baby moves through the pelvis, this
pressure increases. The natural buoyancy that occurs from being in the water
helps relieve this pressure. This results in relaxed muscles and less pain.
Greater involvement of the partner, spouse or coach: The husband or partner
often feels pushed to the side during labour and birth. Nurses, doctors,
helpers and other personnel seem to take over. This doesn’t happen with a water
birth. The labouring mother relies on her partner for comfort and focus. The
husband often gets in the water behind his wife to offer support and
encouragement.
