Is Water Birth Safe?
If you are curious about the safety of water birth, you have come to the right place. Here’s what you need to know about the process and why it might be right for you.
Why Water Birth?
Immersion in warm water relaxes the mother’s body and lowers the perceived intensity of contractions. The buoyancy of the water allows for easier movements and positioning. That means a water birth increases the variety of positions the mother can get in for delivery, positions like the forward-leaning position kneeling in the tub.
The warm water also helps the perineal tissues stretch gently, which reduces the risk of tearing and stitches. The natural elasticity makes for a smoother delivery and a faster recovery.
Does Anything Go in the Water?
The purity of the birthing environment is crucial for a safe birthing experience.
We ensure the water temperature is warm and comfortable to mimic the womb’s environment. We also avoid adding anything, like essential oils, to the water to maintain cleanliness and safety.
Is Water Birth Safe?
The transition from the amniotic fluid in the womb to the warm water of the birthing pool is gentle for the baby. Newborns are naturally equipped not to breathe underwater immediately due to the change in buoyancy. Babies take their first breath when exposed to air, which happens once they are lifted from the water and the air hits their face for the first time.
Till then, the babies practice breathing in the womb and gradually breathe out the water with the first exposure to the outside environment. In short, water birth is safe for you and your baby, provided experienced professionals perform it.
Immediate Post-Birth Care in Water Birth
After birth, we monitor the delivery of the placenta. In most situations, we practice delayed cord clamping for its many benefits.
We will assist with moving the mother from the tub to the bed. If the mother feels strong enough, we lay down Chux pads to help her stand and sit safely. These pads help manage fluids and provide a non-slip surface. The baby stays with mom for nursing and bonding.
Water birth at the Birth Center Stone Oak is an intimate and safe experience. You can learn about it on our YouTube channel.