Waterbirth

Common questions about waterbirth:

How can babies be born underwater? Babies are born with a strong diving reflex that prevents them from breathing while they are underwater. This reflex is present until they are approximately 6 months old. Immediately after they are born they continue to receive oxygen through their umbilical cord until they are lifted to the surface (usually within just a few seconds). Once they are lifted to their mothers arms, the pressure change from the water environment to the air begins the transition for them to breathe oxygen.

What about monitoring the babies heart rate? Our monitoring devices are waterproof. We can continue to monitor the baby while mom is enjoying the benefits of the warm water.

How does mom benefit from water during labor and birth? Warm water provides helpful relaxation to both the mother and baby. I encourage mom to use water during labor for many reasons. The support water gives to the body enables the laboring woman to easily get in a variety of positions. Women enjoy the weightlessness of being in water. It provides great freedom of movement for moms. Water can provide a bouyance that reduces pressure from gravity, it helps promote circulation to the uterus, and softens the perineal area. This can have pain relieving benefits that many moms swear by. In addition to its aquadural effect it can aid in lowering high blood pressure and increasing tissue flexibility promoting less tearing.

Why is waterbirth so special? Birth in water is a very gentle transition for babies. Rather than being immediately exposed to a dramatic change of environment after they are born, waterbirth babies are welcome into warm water that allows them to gently transition to breathe air.

What kind of tub is best? I generally recommend an inflatable tub. They are comfortable and affordable. The tubs are easy to clean or easily disposed of after birth. Either a childrens play pool, or a more theraputic model with jets will work. These tubs provide good depth and room for moms to move around and are large enough to accomodate partners and siblings. I will share options for tubs with you if you ask.