Water Birth Tips

The use of birthing tubs for labor and delivery has been gaining popularity in Western cultures since the 1970s. Benefits may include increased relaxation and comfort for the mother and a smoother transition for the newborn. Babies breathe when exposed to air; the umbilical cord provides oxygen while underwater. Infection is also unlikely because water dilutes any bacteria that may be present. The safety of water birth depends on having skilled professionals in attendance.

Preparation

Birthing tubs are available for purchase or rent; choices range from portable spas to inflatable children's pools. There is nothing wrong with using your own bathtub or spa, as long as it is clean and about two feet deep. Birth attendants need to be able to reach you from the edge of the tub, unless they agree to get in! Fathers may also want to join their wives in the pool.
When set-up is to be done at home, a trial run is essential. You will want to become familiar with your birth tub, how long it takes to set up, fill, and adjust the water temperature. These tasks average 45 minutes to an hour. The Waterbirth Website recommends a fill line nine inches from the top; the water will rise approximately 1 to 2 inches per person. Get into the water and enjoy it during the days and weeks leading up to the birth. That way, the pool will be an old familiar friend when it's time to have your baby, not something new and strange.

Temperature

For water to relieve pain and promote relaxation, the temperature needs to be close to normal body temperature. Waterbirth International suggests a range of 95 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Water that is too cool will cause your body to tense up, and temperatures over 101 degrees Fahrenheit are stressful for your baby. Be sure to drink plenty of water or other fluids while in the tub.

Timing

Getting in the water too early can slow down or stop labor temporarily. There are no hard and fast rules, but generally you should avoid immersion until labor is well established; this is about the time that labor pain is too intense to comfortably walk or talk through contractions. It is fine to stay in the water as long as labor is progressing.

Positions and Modesty

Moving in water is easier than on land. Experiment with side-lying, squatting and hands-and-knees postures; trust yourself to find the birthing position that is best for you and your baby. Kneeling frog style or sitting back on your heels works for many women.
Using water for birth does not require the mother to be naked. Sports bras and long tee shirts can go into the pool and beach towels are great for getting out. Have several spares of each on hand to change as often as needed.

Insurance

Some insurance companies will reimburse the cost of pool rental; the technical term for using water during labor is hydrotherapy. Waterbirth International suggests, however, that specifying the type of birth on claims may result in denial, as water birth could be considered experimental. The appropriate billing classification is vaginal birth.