Born in the Water | A Collection of Gorgeous Waterbirth Photographs
The practice of laboring and birthing in water dates back centuries. Today, we find that folks choose to use hydrotherapy for a wide range of reasons, and likewise, have a vast array of anecdotal benefits of having a waterbirth. Some have stated that they feel less pain when they are in the water, or that the distraction of the showerhead on their lower back was exactly what they needed to get through the intensity of transition.
We know that the evidence shows us those who choose to have a waterbirth:
Are more likely to have an uncomplicated vaginal birth
Are far less likely to get an episiotomy, or see use of forceps or vacuum extraction
Are less likely to ask for pain relief medications
Have a decrease in the total length of labor
Are more likely to be supported in pushing in an upright position, with less hands-on delivery assistance from care providers
Have higher satisfaction from birthing parents
“72.3% of people who had waterbirths stated that they would certainly choose this method of giving birth again.”
A few myths about waterbirth compared to what we call “land birth,” based on the evidence:
There is no difference in perineal tearing, though water births have been noted to result in less severe tearing (3rd & 4th degree)
Studies show waterbirth does not appear to increase any risk of infection
Water birth does not impact blood loss or postpartum hemorrhage, and care providers typically have special training in how to observe blood loss in water.
