Wondering About Water Birth

A Certified Doula Answers Your Water Birth Questions

By Kelly Camden, Certified Doula and Yoga Instructor

Perhaps it is the fact that we spend our first nine months in water that makes water such a soothing element for us. When we feel tense, stressed or have aches and pains, we turn to water. We take a hot shower, soak in the tub or head to a body of water. For women who enjoy soaking in the tub after a long day, laboring in the water provides fabulous natural pain relief.

During labor and childbirth, the benefits of water are even more noticeable. Women feel the weight of the pregnant belly supported by the water. Many positions that are conducive to birth are easier to do in water. The water's warmth does wonders to reduce the sensation of contractions, while softening the perineal tissue, leading to reduced tearing during birth. The use of water even helps some women to catch their own babies.

Water birth is considered to be the gentlest way to give birth, for both the mother and the baby. The baby transitions from a compact position within his mother's womb, to expanding his limbs for the first time in the water of the birth pool. It is not until he comes to the surface that he feels the full weight of his body.

During labor and pushing in the water, the baby can be monitored without the mother having to get out of the tub. Care providers who offer water birth carry handheld waterproof Dopplers (monitors) to listen to the baby.

Want to see more?

• Homebirth Help: A Certified Doula Answers Common Questions on Homebirth
• Waterbirth: A Gentle Birthing Choice
• Weighing in on Water Births: Why Are Moms-to-be Choosing This Birth Method?
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