Water Birth Facts and FAQs

Summary

In this video, childbirth educator Bridget Tyler explores the pros and cons of water birth, sharing her personal experience and answering common questions. She explains the comfort water provides during labor, its association with shorter labor times, and lower intervention rates. Bridget also addresses concerns such as whether babies breathe underwater, the possibility of pooping in the water, and whether it's safe to stay in the tub after birth. While discussing potential risks like umbilical cord tearing and infection, she emphasizes that water birth can be a peaceful, natural option for those seeking a physiologic birth.

Takeaways

• 😀 Water births involve giving birth submerged in water, and can happen at home, birthing centers, or hospitals with birthing tubs.
• 😀 One of the main pros of water birth is that water provides significant comfort during labor, often compared to a natural 'epidural.'
• 😀 Water births are associated with shorter labors, likely due to increased comfort and reduced stress during contractions.
• 😀 Water births have a lower incidence of medical interventions, such as vacuum or forceps-assisted deliveries, pain medication, and episiotomies.
• 😀 Giving birth in water can reduce the risk of tearing during labor, which can lead to fewer complications.
• 😀 Women who have water births report higher satisfaction, likely due to reduced pain and a more natural birthing experience.
• 😀 A common concern is whether babies breathe underwater, but this is rare because babies receive oxygen via the umbilical cord until they're lifted from the water.
• 😀 If a mother accidentally poops in the water during labor, it's no big deal, as the birth team can easily remove it using a fishnet.
• 😀 Moms do not need to exit the tub immediately after giving birth if both they and the baby are healthy; skin-to-skin contact can happen in the water.
• 😀 The water temperature should ideally be between 99°F and 100°F to avoid overheating, and the mother should avoid very hot water during labor.
• 😀 If a woman's water breaks, she can still labor in the tub unless there's concern about infection, in which case the color of the amniotic fluid is monitored.
• 😀 A few cons of water birth include the risk of umbilical cord tearing, slight increased infection risks, and a potential for the baby to get too cold if the water is not properly regulated.

Q & A

What is a water birth?

A water birth occurs when a mother gives birth while submerged in water, often in a birthing tub. It is typically chosen by women who are giving birth at home, but birthing centers and some hospitals also offer water birthing options.

What are some of the main benefits of having a water birth?

The main benefits include comfort during labor, shorter labors, a lower incidence of medical interventions (such as assisted deliveries or pain medication), a reduced risk of tearing, and higher satisfaction reported by mothers.

What is the temperature range recommended for water during labor?

The ideal water temperature for labor should be between 99°F and 100°F. The water should not exceed 101°F to avoid raising the mother's body temperature too much.

Can a baby breathe underwater during a water birth?

No, babies do not breathe underwater. While in the womb, babies receive oxygen through the umbilical cord, and they are able to take their first breath after being lifted out of the water.

What happens if a mother poops during labor in the water?

It is very common for mothers to poop during labor. If this happens in the water, it is usually cleaned up with a fishnet by someone on the birth team. It is not considered a problem.

Can the mother stay in the water after giving birth?

Yes, as long as both the mother and baby are healthy, the mother can stay in the water for skin-to-skin contact and even birth the placenta while still submerged in the water.

Is it necessary to leave the water immediately after a water birth?

No, it is not necessary to leave the water immediately after giving birth, as long as both the mother and baby are doing well. Some mothers may choose to get out of the tub, but staying in the water is perfectly fine.

Can a woman stay in the tub if her water has broken?

Yes, as long as there is no indication of infection and the amniotic fluid appears normal, a woman can remain in the water even if her water has broken. However, the color of the fluid may be checked to ensure there are no concerns.

What are the risks associated with water birth?

While the risks are small, they include a slight chance of the umbilical cord tearing during birth, an increased risk of post-birth infection, and a potential risk of the baby getting too cold if the water is not properly regulated. Additionally, laboring in water could slow down labor in some cases.

Can water birth slow down labor?

In some cases, labor may slow down when a mother enters the water. This is more common during the early stages of labor, but it can allow the mother to rest and regain energy. Once rested, labor typically resumes its regular pace.