Mechanics of Water Birth
Water birth is when a woman in labor delivers her child while in water. This technique was often used only in private birth centers but is now gaining momentum in hospitals around the world. This birthing option is available to a mother that chooses not to receive any pain medication such as an epidural. Movement during a water birth is not limited as the mother can freely move and change positions.
When an expectant mother goes into labor and has opted for a water birth, she will immediately contact her physician or midwife and any other support personnel such as a doula. If she is having a home birth, the team will arrive at her home and begin preparing the room for the impending birth. If the mother has selected to give birth in a hospital or birth center, she will travel to that facility.
Before the Baby Arrives
Once labor is confirmed, which is either by checking for dilation or contraction monitors, the laboring mother will be monitored to check the status of her child as well as her own health. Blood pressure, fetal monitoring and dilation checks are often preformed on a schedule to ensure the well-being of the mother and child. For home births or births in a private center, these checks are done less often.
When the mother is moving toward active labor, the support staff will begin to set up the birth tub. Although some facilities have built-in tubs, the majority of them have inflatables that can easily be set up in the room where the laboring mother is. Water between 96 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit is introduced to the birth tub. This temperature allows the mother to be comfortable and the child can maintain a normal heartbeat (water greater than 100 degrees can increase the heartbeat of an unborn child). The optimum level of water is to the nipple line. This will allow maximum comfort for the laboring mom.
Into the Tub
When the birth tub is filled, the laboring mother is assisted to the tub. She is free to position herself in a way that is comfortable to her. Because the water reduces the pressure that labor brings, the mother might feel little pain until the pushing phase. Throughout the process, the laboring mother will be monitored. The fetal heartbeat will be monitored by a waterproof Doppler that allows the mother to stay in the tub.
When it is time to deliver the child, the pregnant woman can remain in the tub. According to the Expectant Mother's Guide, the risk of tearing or an episiotomy is low because a water birth allows the mother to stretch at a slow pace. Once the child is delivered, the newborn's head is raised out of the water. The nose and mouth is suctioned while the rest of the body remains under water. This allows the child to stay warm.
After the cord is cut, the new mother will often be allowed to hold her child as well as nurse. Eventually the mother will be removed from the tub and evaluated for hemorrhaging, tears or retained placenta. During this time, the newborn is evaluated and measured. The tub is then drained, cleaned, sterilized and packed.
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