Water birth is becoming more and more common worldwide. Although not uncommon, you may wonder why and consider one.
Hydrotherapy during labor has many benefits when it is used at the right time, not too early in labor. Too early may slow down labor. It is recommended to jump into the bath or birthing pool when the contractions are 4-5 minutes apart and last at least 1 minute. Shower can be used anytime before that and is also a great tool for relieving discomfort and pain.
Some benefits of hydrotherapy during labor:
Increase in the natural hormone oxytocin, which often helps with stronger and more effective contractions,
Increased relaxation due to increased oxytocin and lower stress hormones,
Reduce discomfort and pain.
When you've decided to use the birth pool for pain relief during labor, the person filling up the pool/ bath tub should ensure the temperature of the water is at body temperature and shouldn't exceed 98.6 F (37 C). The laboring person can develop a fever if the water is too hot, as well as the baby.
Water may help speed up labor, but if too long in the water, labor can slow done. It is recommended that you stay no longer that 1/1/2 hour at a time or whenever you notice a change in the pattern of the contractions, getting out of the water at least 30 minutes before re-entering it.
Some hospital policies have birthing pool available during labor but do not allow a baby to be born in the water, they may require you to leave the pool when it is time to push. If caregivers are water birth trained it is completely safe for baby to be born in the water.
Water birth are generally safe for low-risk pregnancies, but always consult your caregiver before making a decision.
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