Waterbirth Information
I am often asked if I do waterbirths. The answer is definitely YES! I love doing waterbirths. Women are usually more comfortable in the water which is good for mom and baby. Warm water is so effective in reducing the pain of labor that many midwives refer to it as "the aquadural!" Water encourages the production of endorphins which are nature’s own painkillers. Endorphins produce a sense of well-being which helps you tolerate the contractions more and stops you from feeling overwhelmed by the experience. The water relaxes your muscles which is also important for pain relief. When the pelvic floor muscles are more relaxed the uterus can work better which can lead to a shorter labor. Water offers a relief from gravity and makes it easier to move and change positions. Your muscles don’t have to support your body so it is less tiring and easier to stay in a comfortable position, which makes your labor easier.

Parents are concerned at times about the possibility of their baby drowning. Babies exist in water within your uterus. That is the environment that they are used to. They have chemoreceptors around their mouth which initiate the normal breathing response at birth. These chemoreceptors are only activated by contact with air. With only the head out the baby does not need to breathe because the umbilical cord is delivering oxygen to the baby. Once the baby is born he/she is immediately handed to you. Mom and baby love that skin to skin contact. Water babies usually do not cry as much during the immediate postpartum period. The birth is much more gentle and they don’t feel gravity as much. They tend to be more alert and aware of their surroundings. If you have any more questions a great website to visit is waterbirth.org.

Of course, how you choose to give birth to your baby is your decision to make. If you are not comfortable actually giving birth in the water, you can choose to labor in the tub or the shower and get out for the actual birth.
 
Ph. 210-688-6727 | San Antonio, Texas
 
Copyright © 2003 Compassionate Care Midwifery Services | Webmaster