I’ve used the word people instead of mothers because for a lot of families the birthing plan is something that the other parent (if there is one) might like to have a say in. It is a profoundly special experience that will live in their memories for a lifetime so it’s really quite important to give it some thought.
I’ve used the word people instead of mothers because for a lot of families the birthing plan is something that the other parent (if there is one) might like to have a say in. It is a profoundly special experience that will live in their memories for a lifetime so it’s really quite important to give it some thought.
If you have had a water birth you might find it bizarre that people might even wonder why on earth someone would choose to birth in this way. Your question to them might be “well why wouldn’t they?”. If you have had a positive experience then the answers to this question will be pretty obvious.
However many people do wonder why someone would choose to birth in the water. They wonder about the benefits and reasons that have lead couples to go down this route.
Here are eight reasons why people choose to have a water birth:
- Water is a natural pain reliever. Have you ever stepped into a hot shower or warm bubble bath to ease period cramps or back pain? It is incredibly relaxing and the gentle warmth acts as a natural remedy for the pain during contractions and pushing.
- Being mobile during labour is very important. Gravity is your best friend. When you are in water, your body has a whole new sense of freedom. You will feel more flexible which will allow you to find a birthing position that works best for your body.
- Water is soothing and relaxing for the mother which benefits her during this very intense experience. When a woman feels relaxed her labour is more likely to progress without complications. When she is relaxed she can breathe easier and her breathing technique is the greatest tool during this experience.
- Water allows the perineum to become more soft and flexible which reduces a woman’s chance of tearing or needing an episiotomy.
- In the later stages of labour, water is believed to increase a woman’s energy levels – just when she needs it most. Her body feels lighter which reserves energy.
- There are so many comforting benefits for the baby. Being born in water welcomes them into an environment that is similar to that of the amniotic sac. This leads to a labour that is less stressful and more calm for the baby.
- Giving birth in water lowers the chances of having a Caesarian birth which is something that many couples really want to avoid.
- Many women experience a much shorter labour if they give birth in water. This may be linked to the fact that water births lead to less pain relief such as the epidural which is known to prolong labour.
- The mother feels more in control. This really adds to her emotional well-being during the experience. She is free to move and does not feel burdened by as many “checks” or pain relief offers as things progress.
- The risk of high blood pressure may be significantly reduced as anxiety levels tend to be a lot smaller when a woman is birthing in water.
Written by Tracey Quinn staff writer at FFHQ who also blogs at www.loveofliving.ie.
