Water birth its benefits risks and how its performed

Water birth has become a popular choice for many mothers looking for a natural and safe way to ease the pain of labor. The warm water environment provides both psychological and physical relief. However, like any other type of delivery, water birth requires medical precautions and a good understanding of its benefits and risks. In this article from Dalyli Medical, we will explore the benefits of water birth, the key precautions that should be considered, as well as the potential risks and how to carry out the birth safely to ensure the best possible experience for both mother and baby.

Can I change clothes during labor?
Yes, in some cases, you can change clothes during labor if you feel the need to do so. It's best to make the change quickly and comfortably, especially if you're in the later stages of labor.

What is a water birth?
A water birth is a type of delivery where labor and birth take place in a warm water pool. The water helps alleviate pain and promote relaxation, making the labor process more comfortable for the mother.

Is water birth safe?
Yes, water birth is safe when conducted under the supervision of a skilled medical professional in a well-equipped environment. It’s important that both the mother and baby are in good health and are monitored throughout labor to ensure safety.

When can the mother enter the water during labor?
The mother can enter the water in the early stages of labor when regular contractions begin. The water helps ease the pain, but in some cases, it may be recommended to wait until the cervix is sufficiently dilated.

Is water birth suitable for all mothers?
No, water birth is not suitable for everyone. It may be advised against in certain situations, such as:

If the mother has health problems like high blood pressure or preeclampsia.
If the mother has had a previous cesarean section.
If the pregnancy is early or if the baby is in an abnormal position, such as breech.

Can the baby breathe underwater?
No, babies do not breathe underwater. The baby remains underwater until they are lifted from the pool after birth, at which point they begin to breathe normally. Newborns do not start breathing until they are exposed to air.

Does water birth reduce pain?
Yes, the warm water helps reduce pain by relaxing muscles and relieving tension. It also enhances circulation, which helps lessen the intensity of contractions.

Can water birth be done for a first-time mother?
Yes, water birth can be performed even for a first-time mother, as long as she is in good health and the birth is supervised by a qualified medical professional. The mother and baby's condition should also be carefully evaluated before making the decision.

Is water birth faster than traditional birth?
Not necessarily. Some studies suggest that water birth may ease the labor process and reduce the duration of labor, but this depends on several factors, such as the mother's health, the baby's position, and the nature of the contractions. Labor might be longer in some cases.

Can the mother move freely during a water birth?
Yes, one of the key advantages of water birth is that the mother can move freely within the pool. She can change positions easily, such as standing, kneeling, or sitting, which helps ease pain and facilitates the progress of labor.

Should the umbilical cord be cut immediately after birth?
The umbilical cord does not need to be cut immediately after a water birth. In some cases, it’s preferable to leave the cord attached for a short time after birth, allowing any remaining blood in the placenta to flow into the baby, which helps improve circulation. The cord is cut later when both the mother and baby are in good condition.

Should the baby be removed from the water immediately?
Yes, the baby should be removed from the water promptly after birth, usually within a few minutes, to ensure they do not face any breathing issues or other health complications.

Types of Water Birth:

Home Water Birth

What is it?: A water birth performed in a specially prepared pool at home, aimed at mothers who prefer comfort and privacy.
Features:
- The pool is set up by a midwife or medical support team.
- Water temperature is controlled for comfort.
- Supervision by a qualified medical team, with readiness for additional medical support in case of an emergency.
Benefits:
- Psychological comfort and privacy.
- Freedom of movement during labor.

Hospital Water Birth

What is it?: A water birth carried out in a hospital or birthing center that provides specialized facilities for water births.
Features:
- Supervised by a professional medical team.
- Medical equipment available for monitoring the mother and baby’s health.
- The pool is equipped for comfort and privacy.
Benefits:
- A safe environment with specialized care.
- The option of additional pain relief if necessary.

Partial Water Birth

What is it?: The mother spends some parts of labor in water, then exits the pool for the final stages of delivery.
Features:
- The mother starts in the water for pain relief, then moves to a birthing bed or another location for the delivery.
- The baby is taken out of the water after birth if it's safe.
Benefits:
- Initial relief in the water.
- Easier mobility during labor.
- No need for a full water birth.

Full Water Birth

What is it?: The entire labor and birth take place in water, from start to finish.
Features:
- The mother and baby remain in the water throughout the birth.
- Water aids in easing the pushing phase and helps the baby adjust to the new environment gradually.
Benefits:
- A calm and relaxed environment for both mother and baby.
- The baby experiences a smoother transition into the world, with less shock, as the environment is similar to the womb.

Water Birth with Midwife Assistance

What is it?: Supervised by a trained midwife, whether at home or in a hospital setting.
Features:
- The midwife monitors the health of both the mother and baby throughout the process.
- Medical equipment may be used, including fetal heart rate monitors and water temperature control.
Benefits:
- Close monitoring of mother and baby.
- Continuous expert supervision throughout the labor.

Water Birth Using Special Birthing Pool

What is it?: Some hospitals provide specially designed pools for water birth, offering the mother more space to move.
Features:
- The pool is spacious and comfortable, often with dim lighting and soothing music.
- Medical equipment is discreetly placed under the water to monitor the mother and baby.
Benefits:
- Larger space for the mother to move freely.
- Ideal water temperature for relaxation.

Water Birth After Cesarean (VBAC Water Birth)

What is it?: In rare cases, a woman who has previously had a cesarean section may opt for a water birth. However, this requires careful evaluation of the mother’s health.
Features:
- Allowed if the mother is healthy and has no surgical complications.
- Requires close medical supervision for the safety of both mother and baby.
Benefits:
- The warm water helps reduce pain and anxiety after a cesarean birth.

Stages of Water Birth:

Stage 1: Early Labor

What Happens: Contractions begin, signaling the start of labor.
How to Manage: The mother may enter the water when contractions start. She can stay out initially or enter gradually, depending on comfort.
Goal: To ease pain and reduce muscle tension using warm water, which helps improve blood flow to the uterus and enhances labor progress.
What the Mother Feels: Comfort and relaxation, with reduced pain due to the warm water.

Stage 2: Cervical Dilation

What Happens: The cervix dilates to 10 cm, allowing the baby to pass through the birth canal.
How to Manage: The mother can stay in the water if comfortable. She can move freely within the pool during this stage. This phase can last a while in some cases.
Goal: Continue to relax and manage stronger contractions as dilation increases.
What the Mother Feels: Stronger contractions and the urge to push. Sometimes, the mother may feel like leaving the water at this stage.

Stage 3: Pushing

What Happens: After the cervix is fully dilated, the mother starts pushing to help deliver the baby.
How to Manage: The mother is encouraged to push naturally in the water, shifting positions like sitting, kneeling, or standing as needed.
Goal: To assist the mother in pushing the baby out.
What the Mother Feels: Intense pressure during pushing, but the water helps ease the discomfort.

Stage 4: Birth of the Baby

What Happens: The baby is born, typically head first, followed by the body.
How to Manage: The medical team is ready to safely remove the baby from the water.
Goal: Ensure the baby’s safety and prevent water inhalation.
What the Mother Feels: Relief and excitement after the baby is born, possibly still submerged in water.

Stage 5: Post-Birth

What Happens: After the baby is born, the mother may remain in the water briefly as the umbilical cord is cut.
How to Manage: The health of the mother and baby is carefully monitored. The mother can choose to stay in the water or exit.
Goal: Ensure both mother and baby are in good health, with the baby breathing properly.
What the Mother Feels: Relaxation and emotional relief after birth.

Stage 6: Placenta Delivery

What Happens: The placenta detaches from the uterine wall after the baby is born.
How to Manage: The placenta may also be delivered in the water, which is a normal part of the process.
Goal: Safely deliver the placenta.
What the Mother Feels: Mild discomfort, but it typically occurs easily after the baby is born.

Benefits of Water Birth:

Pain Relief
The warm water helps relax muscles and reduce tension, which contributes to pain relief during labor. It also improves blood circulation, which helps lessen contraction pain.
Faster Labor
Some studies suggest that water birth may help speed up labor. The water facilitates the baby’s movement through the birth canal, and the relaxation helps reduce the mother’s stress, enhancing labor progress.
Easier Breathing
The water environment helps the mother breathe deeply and comfortably, improving oxygen levels for both her and the baby.

Water birth is considered to offer a more natural environment for both the mother and baby, making them feel safer and more comfortable during labor.
Easier Transition for the Baby
Water birth can make the transition from the womb to the outside world smoother. The water environment is similar to the amniotic fluid in the womb, easing the baby’s entry into the world.
Reduced Anxiety and Stress
Water has a calming effect, helping reduce anxiety and stress for the mother, leading to a smoother and more comfortable birth experience.
Increased Comfort and Privacy
Water birth provides a more private environment, allowing the mother to have more control over her birthing space, which can contribute to feeling more comfortable and at ease.

What to Wear During a Water Birth?

Cotton Underwear (White or Dark Colors)
Description: Cotton underwear is one of the most common options, as it allows the skin to breathe and absorbs sweat well.
Fit: It should be moderately snug, so it stays in place in the water without being too tight.
Water Birth Shorts (Specialized for Water Birth)
Description: Some women prefer wearing water birth shorts made from elastic, comfortable materials that can hold up in water without becoming heavy or uncomfortable.
Fit: The shorts are designed to provide comfort while moving in the water, preventing friction or tightness.
Swimsuit (Bikini or One-Piece)
Description: Some mothers choose to wear a comfortable swimsuit or bikini for more freedom during labor.
Fit: It should be lightweight and flexible, allowing for easy movement without any sharp edges or zippers that could disrupt comfort.
Labor Dress (Loose-fitting)
Description: A loose, comfortable labor dress, often designed specifically for birthing, allows easy movement.
Fit: It should be light and not restrictive, easily lifted during delivery.
Water Cover-up (For Privacy)
Description: Some mothers may prefer to wear a water cover-up to maintain privacy during labor in the water. These covers are designed to be easy to put on and take off.
Fit: The cover should be easy to lift, offering comfort while maintaining a level of privacy.
Medical Clothing (In Certain Cases)
Description: In some medical centers or hospitals, mothers may be asked to wear medical clothing specially designed with openings for birth and made for the aquatic environment.
Fit: This clothing offers comfort during movement in the water while maintaining safety and sterility.

Additional Tips on Clothing During Water Birth

Choose Comfortable Clothing: It’s essential to choose clothes that allow you to move easily. Make sure they are appropriate for the water temperature, as hot water can cause discomfort if your clothing is not comfortable.
Dark Colors Are Preferable: Dark-colored clothing is preferred for privacy and to reduce the appearance of stains or any leaks.
Easy to Lift: Ensure that the clothes you choose can be lifted easily during the pushing phase, so you can focus on the birth without any discomfort.

Can I Change Clothes During Labor?

Yes, you can change clothes during labor if you feel the need to do so. However, it’s best to make the change quickly and comfortably, especially if you are in the later stages of labor.

Risks of Water Birth

Increased Risk of Infection
What Happens: If the water or pool is not clean enough or if the environment isn’t properly sanitized, the risk of infection for both the mother and baby increases.
How to Avoid: Regularly change the water and thoroughly disinfect the pool before labor. The medical team should be experienced and use sterile equipment.
Difficulty in Monitoring the Baby’s Condition
What Happens: In some cases, it may be difficult to monitor the baby’s condition accurately during a water birth, especially if there are health concerns such as irregular fetal heartbeats.
How to Avoid: Water births should be supervised by a skilled medical professional with advanced monitoring equipment to ensure the baby’s safety.
Risk of Fainting or Breathing Difficulties for the Mother
What Happens: The mother may feel dizzy or faint due to low blood pressure or excessive heat in the water.
How to Avoid: Regularly monitor the mother’s blood pressure and ensure the water temperature is appropriate to avoid overheating or distress.
Complications for the Baby After Birth
What Happens: In rare cases, the baby may experience breathing issues or water inhalation if not properly removed from the water.
How to Avoid: The baby should be quickly removed from the water after delivery, with the medical team prepared to handle any emergencies.
Increased Risk of Swelling in the Mother’s Perineal Area
What Happens: Movement in the water may cause friction, leading to swelling or tears in the perineal area.
How to Avoid: A water birth should be conducted under the guidance of professionals who know how to manage the birth process to minimize the risk of tearing or injury.
Delayed Medical Intervention in Emergency Situations
What Happens: In the case of complications such as sudden bleeding or difficulty pushing, it may be more challenging to intervene quickly in a water environment.
How to Avoid: Have a clear emergency plan in place and coordinate with the medical team to ensure rapid action if needed.
Risks in Complicated Pregnancies
What Happens: Water birth may not be safe if the mother has certain complications, such as high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, or placenta issues.
How to Avoid: Consult with a doctor to ensure that water birth is appropriate for the mother, particularly if there are health concerns.
Water Temperature Risks
What Happens: If the water temperature is too hot or too cold, it can pose health risks for both the mother and the baby.
How to Avoid: Maintain a safe water temperature (usually between 36–37°C) to ensure comfort and safety.
Issues with Mobility and Interaction
What Happens: The mother may have difficulty moving freely in the pool due to her size or difficulty pushing in the later stages of labor.
How to Avoid: Ensure the pool is designed for easy movement and provide constant support from the medical team.
Water Birth May Not Be Suitable for Some Mothers
What Happens: In some cases, water birth may not be recommended for mothers with certain health conditions or if there are complications during pregnancy.
How to Avoid: Carefully evaluate the mother’s health before deciding on a water birth.

Precautions for Water Birth

Ensure the Mother’s Health is Suitable
Primary Requirement: The mother must be in good health and free from complications that could affect the water birth, such as:

High blood pressure or preeclampsia
Placenta issues or premature labor
Heart or respiratory diseases
Medical Examination: The mother should undergo a full medical examination to ensure that water birth is a safe option.

Choose the Right Location
Specialized Hospitals or Clinics: Make sure the location is equipped with a specially designed birthing pool and follows strict sanitation and safety standards.
Health and Safety Conditions: The facility should have medical equipment available in case of emergencies, including:

Fetal heart rate monitoring devices
Blood pressure monitoring equipment
Emergency equipment like oxygen and neonatal resuscitation tools.

Monitor Water Temperature
Ideal Temperature: Water temperature should be between 36-37°C. Water that is too hot can cause exhaustion, while cold water may strain muscles.
Temperature Control: Ensure constant monitoring to prevent sudden changes in water temperature.
Monitor the Mother and Baby’s Condition During Labor
The doctor or qualified midwife should be present throughout labor to monitor the health of both the mother and baby.
Fetal Monitoring: In some cases, ultrasound or electronic devices may be used to track the baby’s heart rate.
Mother’s Health: Monitor the mother for any signs of bleeding or health complications.
Have a Clear Emergency Plan
Emergency Situations: A clear plan should be in place for any medical complications, such as sudden bleeding or difficulty in breathing.
Quick Response: Ensure the medical team is ready to take immediate action if necessary.
Prepare the Pool Properly
Sanitation: The pool must be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized before use to avoid infection.
Necessary Equipment: Make sure there are additional supplies such as towels or covers for the baby after delivery.
Sufficient Space: The pool should provide enough space for the mother to move freely and change positions during labor.
Avoid Continuing Water Birth in Case of Complications
Previous C-Section: A mother who has had a cesarean section may not be suited for a water birth.
Health Complications: If any abnormal signs, such as excessive bleeding, unconsciousness, or breathing difficulties, occur, the mother should be transferred to another location for traditional delivery.
Ensure Privacy
Psychological Comfort: A water birth should provide a calm and private environment, ensuring that the mother feels relaxed and secure.
Lighting and Music: Soft lighting and calming music can enhance relaxation during labor.
Timing for Water Entry
Best Timing: The mother should enter the water at the beginning of labor or when contractions are regular. It’s best not to enter the water too early.
Ensure Active Labor: Confirm that labor has started before allowing the mother to enter the water.
Support Movement in Water
Freedom of Movement: One of the main advantages of water birth is the ability for the mother to move freely in the pool. However, it’s important that she is under constant supervision to ensure she’s in safe positions and not experiencing undue pain.