Waterbirth

Here is the experience of one of our clients: “Lisa has been working hard for hours now and the contractions are getting intense. Her face shows the seriousness of her labor, from the furrowed brow to the tightened jaw. As the contraction peaks, her shoulders tense up and her eyes plead for help. The birthing tub is full and we suggest she enter the water. Lisa is unsure how anything could help her at this point but as she lowers herself into the tub, the water surrounds her and we hear the familiar "Aaahhh." She sinks deeper resting her head on the side of the tub as her hands float near the surface. In a matter of moments her body is relaxed and her face the picture of tranquility. The tension melts away as she surrenders her body and her labor to the water. She opens her eyes momentarily and whispers, "I feel sooooo much better!" Lisa has just experienced what we call the “aquadural.”

I’m often asked if I assist in water birth and the answer is “YES!” Not only have I given birth in water myself, I have extensive training and have even traveled to Germany to learn more. I have also given water birth lectures and trainings at midwifery conferences. Most of my clients use water therapy of some kind during labor and about more than half actually birth in the water.

Women have been finding comfort in water since the beginning of time. Warm water envelops the body creating a weightless feeling and diminishes the sensation of the contractions. As the body relaxes, adrenaline levels are lowered and endorphins are released. These hormonal painkillers reduce stress and lessen pain, allowing both physical and mental relaxation. Most women find their ability to concentrate is improved, allowing them to focus inward on the birth process. This promotes the progression of labor, making it easier, shorter and even enjoyable. The relief from the warm water is so good that it is worth bearing in mind that it can be used as pain relief even if you don't want or plan to have a water birth.

Pain relief is an obvious motivation but there are other benefits to water. The buoyancy of the water gives a sense of weightlessness which makes it easier to change positions and eases aches and pains. Soaking in water lowers high blood pressure and increases blood circulation to the babies so they are born with higher oxygen levels. When mothers labor in the tub, there is less fetal distress and fewer complications such as hemorrhage, shoulder dystocia and meconium aspiration. The soaking is also good for mother’s bottom as it softens the perineum, making it easier to birth without tearing. Babies love being born into the familiarity of water. They tend to be more alert and calm. You can literally see them unfold their limbs, open their eyes and take in their new world. It's a gentle transition from womb to mother's embrace.

The most common questions asked about waterbirth are, “Is it safe?” and “How does baby breathe?” There is a complex physiological mechanism which inhibits the baby from taking a breath when it is born in water. It is commonly believed that the stimulus to breathe is from the baby's face coming in direct contact with air. Up until the time that the baby is lifted out of the water, the baby receives its oxygen from the mother via the placenta and the umbilical cord. I have a lot of training and experience with babies being born under water and equipment to monitor the baby’s heart rate while you are in the tub. If you want to know more, we are happy to discuss the water birth option with you.