No matter how it’s done, giving birth to your child is something you’ll never forget. Some mothers choose a water birth, which is done in a pool or tub of warm water, as they believe it places less stress on the baby and themselves. Some women also feel this delivery gives them more choice in the process.
Benefits of Water Birth
There have not yet been many studies to confirm benefits of water birth, although many women believe it’s a more comfortable setting for delivery. Potential benefits of water birth include:
- Because water offer buoyancy, it makes the mother feel lighter. This may reduce back pain and contraction pain during labor and childbirth.
- Water is a relaxing environment, which allows the mother to concentrate on the birth process.
- Water relaxes the muscles, which makes it easier to change positions.
- Water provides an easy transition for the baby from womb to the world.
- Water reduces the risk of perineum tearing, and possibly tearing to the labia and vagina. This reduces the risk that the mother will need an episiotomy or stitches.
- A water birth shortens the first stages of the labor process and may reduce the chance that anesthesia is required.