And among your options may be childbirth in water. Water births are becoming increasingly popular among women who want to have a natural birth or use very little pain medication during it. But what is water birth? What are the benefits and potential risks?
What is water birth?
Even for those who are not familiar with the term, water birth is exactly what it sounds like: in practice, this means that the udder process and birth, when possible, take place in water at 37 ° C degrees, usually in the bath. or a birthing pool.
Benefits of water birth
There have been several studies on the potential benefits of water birth, and many women who choose this option have reported positive results from their birth experience. Some women think water birth soothes, helps reduce stress And in the peace of your newborn baby. These benefits are also reported by women who opt for part of the birth but do not give birth in water. Some of the benefits reported by women who choose to give birth in water are as follows:
A more relaxing birthing experience
Hot baths are already a daily way of relaxation. So it’s not hard to imagine why taking a warm bath during labor can have the same relaxing effect. Many claim it can help lower mom’s blood pressure, creating a more relaxed atmosphere overall.
A shorter labor
The buoyancy of water makes it easier for many women to move and change positions during labor, which can help smoother contractions.
Less need for painkillers
Since hot water can help you relax, it can also cause releases more endorphins and improve blood flow to the uterine muscles, which can help mom deal with labor pains naturally.
Do you really feel the experience of childbirth
Some women believe that the ability to feel the process of childbirth with manageable pain levelmakes them feel more present and connected to the event.
Possible risks of water birth
Water births can be a great option for moms who want a natural birth, but there are some potential downsides you should be aware of. So if you’re wondering how safe water birth is, below is everything you need to know.
Water births are only recommended for low-risk pregnancies.
A water birth, like any other natural birth, is only recommended for low-risk pregnancies. This is because any complication during childbirth can further complicate the process due to the need to safely remove the mother from the water.
There is limited research
Although there have been several studies on the potential benefits of hydrotherapy and water birth, experts agree that more research is needed, especially regarding the potential risks of this procedure.
Possible risk of infection
The amount of time a baby spends underwater during a water birth is often a major concern for many experts. Because blood, other fluids, and solids are a natural part of labor and delivery, babies can be exposed to bacteria if they open their eyes or mouth underwater. And this can potentially lead to infection. However, there is still no evidence of an increase in infection in children born in water.
Pain treatment options may be more limited
If you choose water birth, epidural anesthesia will not be among the pain relief options. Many women say that this is offset by immersion in water, but this should be taken seriously when you think about what kind of experience you want to have. If warm water isn’t enough to deal with labor pains and you want to explore other options, you can take pain medication after you get out of the birthing bath. Your choice will ultimately depend on how close you are to giving birth and where you choose to give birth.
Is it possible to give birth in water in a hospital?
Yes you can. The first water birth took place in a maternity hospital in Greece in 1999, and since then other maternity hospitals have been offering this opportunity to expectant mothers. Among the necessary conditions are the desire of the woman, as well as her good relationship with water, the normal course of pregnancy and the absence of vaginal bleeding.
Source: Lady Like
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