When moving through our pregnancy journey, we’re introduced to a new world of decision-making. With each choice we make, our intentions are for them to be what is best for both mother and baby. For women who are considering water births, knowing about the process can ease feelings of uncertainty. With more information available regarding the history and benefits of this long-standing practice, more women are considering it for their labor experiences.
WHAT IS A WATER BIRTH?
A water birth refers to when a woman gives birth to her baby while in water. Other terms associated with this practice include water immersion and hydrotherapy, and it has reportedly been practiced for centuries. The option to include water immersion during labor and birth is one that women should know is available to them when pregnant. This could include letting a warm shower run down the back during early labor, sitting in a tub of water during a portion of labor, or remaining there for the entirety of the birth.
Ideally, choosing a water birth would be a part of a shared decision-making process between the birthing woman, her caregiver, and her support team. A plethora of research points to the benefits of water immersion. Both the American College of Nurse-Midwives and the Royal College of Midwives have shared their position, stating that they “support water birth for healthy individuals with uncomplicated pregnancies.” Let’s dive into some of the benefits of this birthing practice.
BENEFITS OF WATER BIRTHS
REDUCED PAIN AND DISCOMFORT
Water immersion has been shown to assist women in diminishing the discomfort associated with contractions. A heightened sense of pain relief has often been associated with hydrotherapy due to water’s buoyancy and therapeutic effects. Also, water immersion has been shown to reduce the risk of perineal tears during labor.
A heightened sense of pain relief has often been associated with hydrotherapy due to water’s buoyancy and therapeutic effects.
LOWER CHANCE OF INTERVENTIONS
Women seeking to have little to no medical interventions may be drawn to hydrotherapy. Water immersion has been shown to reduce the chances of interventions such as inductions, episiotomies, and cesareans when used during the first stage of labor.
INCREASED CHANCES OF POSITIVE POST-BIRTH PRACTICES
Babies born during water births are more likely to experience skin-to-skin contact immediately following birth. Additionally, mothers seeking to implement delayed cord cutting may find greater success in settings which allow water immersion.
ENHANCED BIRTHING EXPERIENCE
Studies have demonstrated that women looking to have water births may be more likely to seek information on how to limit the use of medical interventions. The process of attaining more birthing education can lead to an increased sense of empowerment, strengthening a woman’s sense of autonomy and control.
A CALMER BIRTH ENVIRONMENT
Serene and relaxed settings can help in allowing labor to progress more naturally. Dim lights, familiar faces, and a calm environment aid in the flow of birth hormones that help to facilitate the progress of labor. Often done at home or in birthing centers, water births generally allow for women to feel more comfortable and safer.
CONSIDERATIONS PRIOR TO WATER BIRTHS
It’s natural to have some concerns regarding the safety and effectiveness of water immersion. Research has found that there is no greater risk of NICU admission when using hydrotherapy during the first or second stage of labor. Concerns regarding risks of infection have also been explored. To date, there have not been any findings that hydrotherapy leads to infection or a greater chance that the baby will need admission into any form of special care treatment. Additionally, studies have shown that among the various reasons why mothers chose a water birth included that the newborn’s overall condition would not be impacted by adverse effects.
Women who are seeking to implement hydrotherapy into their birthing wishes benefit greatly by having a supportive team. Consulting with a certified nurse midwife or certified midwife is a great start for expectant mothers. They can provide the appropriate education and guidance that can help with deciding whether a water birth is right for you. Equally as important is their ability to assess and care for women who choose water immersion as a part of their birth plan.
Every expecting mother deserves to be well-informed regarding all choices made during her pregnancy. If a water birth is something that you’d like to explore, speak to your caregiver and support team to see what options may be available to you.
Rashida A. Marshall, MS is the creator of AFIYA Magazine, a digital health and lifestyle publication for Black women. This creative venture grew out of her love for learning, teaching, and sharing valuable wellness information to help improve the quality of life. Rashida is also a Pilates and dance instructor specializing in women’s health.
