Water Birthing

Water Birthing

By Margaret Gaia

Water birthing is the process of giving birth to your baby in a warm tub of water.  Some women choose to birth to their babies in water because of the many benefits that come with it, up to and including the comfort and soothing natural effect that the water give them. 

The baby has lived in the amniotic sac for nine months therefore water birthing gives the baby and opportunity to be born in a similar environment which offers comfort.  It also is a less stressful environment for the mother during childbirth. 

Some benefits of water birthing include:

- Environment:  soothing, comfortable, less stressful
- Less stress on the mother
- Better environment, or similar environment for the baby
- Less weight in water, better movement for both baby and mommy
- Lower blood pressure for baby and mommy due to water
- Water causes a relaxed state for all body parts
- Water offers a sense of privacy

Some situations in which one might decide against water birthing exist.  Specific research has cited that there are some risks involved, however it has grown so much in popularity, and it is difficult to compare the risks against those that exist in traditional childbirth.  Some say that the umbilical cord could wrap the neck of the baby and when the baby rises to the top of the water, the cord acts as a tight wrap which cuts off the airflow.  Others say that the chance of water entering into the lungs of the baby exists, however this is rare given the fact that babies do not take a breath until they are exposed to air, which is when they reach the surface of the water.

Other situations are not ideal for water birthing as well.  For example, if one has the STD Herpes.  Herpes is easily transmitted through water, which means it is not an ideal situation to have your baby with that risk in mind.  If your baby is breech or if you are having multiples, you may want to reconsider this option.  It is advised, as always, to discuss this in detail and thoroughly with your healthcare provider, as you want to choose the best option for the health of your baby.