Water Birth: Why More Moms Are Considering This Birthing Option

Water births have become increasingly popular in recent years across Europe and the U.S., and is widely accepted among Filipino moms as well. As its name implies, water birth simply involves giving birth in water.  

Are you considering water labor and birth? Here's why more and more mothers are choosing this option to deliver their babies.

Benefits of Water Birth

1. A more positive labor and birthing experience

In the Philippines, water labor and birth can be done in a hospital, a birthing center, or at home. Whatever you choose, many moms report water births as an overall calmer, gentler, and more positive birthing experience. Makati Medical Center offers water births, as well as this medical facility in Cebu.

This may be because water births are often conducted in the comfort of home, a familiar and safe space for the mother. Additionally, many moms say it gives them a greater sense of control over their birthing process. 

2. A more natural environment

Water births are considered a more natural birthing experience. Being in water during labor and delivery means you may need less medication and fewer medical interventions, or sometimes none at all!

However, this is also why some doctors advise against water births. They prefer the ability to monitor you and your baby closely and be alerted immediately if complications arise.

3. Ease of movement

The spacious birthing tub allows more freedom to move around and find comfortable positions. The buoyancy of warm water makes repositioning easier and requires less effort, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).

Moving in the water can help mothers feel more in control, potentially easing labor pains and making the process more manageable. 

4. Lesser risk of vaginal infection

Research shows a lower risk of vaginal infections in water births compared to traditional hospital births. However, this reduced risk applies only to vaginal infections.  

Water births may still pose a higher risk for other types of birth-related infections, with skin infections being the most common.

Other Possible Advantages of Water Labor and Birth

Water labor and water birth, although considered an ancient and natural way of bringing life into this world, are still widely under-researched.

Experts continue to debate whether it is a better delivery method or even a safe enough option for birthing and labor in the first place.

Here are some additional benefits that many mothers and midwives believe water births offer, though these claims need more research to be conclusive:

1. A gentler transition for the baby

We cannot say for sure what feels more comforting to a newborn baby, but for now, we assume that the transition from the womb to the world could be gentler when the baby's first experiences is in warm water.

Since they are surrounded by amniotic fluid in the womb, the warm water provides a similar environment for the first few seconds of their life, which could provide a calmer experience.

2. Less painful experience

During a water birth, the water in the tub is kept close to your body temperature and consistently maintained throughout labor.

Being submerged in warm water can relax your muscles, release endorphins, and potentially make the labor experience less painful.

3. Shorter labor

As the warm water relaxes the muscles, and with the ability to move freely, this may lead to more effective contractions. This can help your baby to move through the pelvis faster, which may result in a shorter labor than traditional birth.

4. Increased blood circulation

Soaking in warm water can reduce blood pressure and promote blood flow. This will, in turn, delivers more oxygen to your baby, which is always beneficial for them.

5. Lesser need for pain medication

Some mothers report not needing epidural or other pain relief during water labor and birth. While experiences vary, the relaxation provided by warm water might reduce the reliance on medication for some mothers.

6. Reduced risk of episiotomies

Warm water relaxes the muscles, potentially reducing the risk of perineal tearing. The water’s buoyancy can also ease pressure on your perineum, making it easier for your body to stretch naturally. 

7. Less stress during labor

You know how when you go for a swim or soak in a tub, you always end up feeling relaxed? That’s hydrotherapy working its magic. Hydrotherapy in water labor and birth may help eliminate the stress hormones your body produces due to the fear, anxiety, and fatigue that come with the entire birthing process.

Considering water labor and birth?

If you are considering water labor or birth, it's best to consult your doctor to weigh your options. You may also ask around in online communities like the Smart Parenting Village to see if you can connect with fellow moms who have firsthand experience.

Making an informed decision is key to ensuring the best possible birthing experience for you and your baby.  

Read about celebrities who delivered their children through water birth here.