Underwater birth method is chosen by some mothers because it is considered a familiar environment for the baby, while also helping to reduce stress for the expectant mother.
However, when deciding on any childbirth method, it’s important to consult a specialist doctor to ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby. If the mother and baby’s health are stable and you’re considering underwater birth, take a look at the following information!
Benefits of underwater birth:
- For the mother:Provides a sense of comfort, gentleness, and relaxation. Buoyancy effect helps reduce body weight, allowing the mother to move and change positions easily and freely. Giving birth underwater helps make the mother’s pelvic floor more elastic, reducing the likelihood and ѕeⱱeгіtу of teагѕ or the need for episiotomy. Immersion in water helps lower Ьɩood ргeѕѕᴜгe by reducing anxiety. Limits the production of stress-related hormones, supporting the mother’s body in producing endorphins that act as раіп suppressors. Effectively supports uterine contractions, improves Ьɩood flow to the uterus, helping the mother reduce раіп and provide more oxygen to the baby. Underwater birth often makes the mother feel relaxed, thereby contributing to reducing anxiety, woггу, and feаг.
- For the baby:Provides the baby with an environment similar to the amniotic fluid. The mother’s psychological comfort during underwater birth also helps the baby feel more secure.
Concerns when giving birth underwater:
Discussing the safety of underwater birth, some studies in Europe have shown similar neonatal mortality rates compared to vaginal delivery.
Another concern is that excessively hot water can cause dehydration for the mother and pose a risk to the newborn. Ideally, maintain the water temperature at around 25°C.
In cases where the baby is “stuck” in the birth canal or the umbilical cord is twisted, it may lead to difficulties in breathing or inhaling water. This is a rare occurrence because newborns typically do not breathe until they are exposed to air at birth.
The neonatal mortality rate during underwater birth is similar to that of vaginal delivery.
The final concern is that the umbilical cord may be severed when lifting the baby out of the water, so mothers need to be careful when performing skin-to-skin contact with the baby.
Cases where underwater birth is not advisable:
Mothers with herpes are at risk of transmitting the virus through the water environment, so it’s important to discuss thoroughly with a doctor if considering underwater birth. Additionally, if falling into the following cases, mothers should not apply the underwater birth method:
Baby is in a breech position. Mother has one of the following issues: excessive bleeding or infection. Mother is pregnant with twins: Further discussion with the doctor is needed. Mother has preeclampsia or eclampsia. Signs of preterm labor: If the baby is preterm from 37 weeks onwards, underwater birth should not be considered.
