Water birth is one of the biggest sensations today. While some medical institutes have published reports on the advantages of this method, others believe that it may be connected to certain dangers.
Water birth is actually far from a new or a revolutionary method. Ancient Greeks were aware of it and used to practice this form of birth as a less painful and traumatizing option for both the mom-to-be and her baby.
Medical experts have controversial opinions, when it comes to water birth. The fact, however, is that women who had been warned that they would be capable of delivering a child only after a Caesarian section had been capable of natural delivery because of water birth.
Today, more experts give their approval for this method but it still tends to remain unconventional. Though many moms are considering birth at home or water birth at a hospital, they are being advised that the traditional hospital birth is still the safest option.
Why Water Birth?
Water has one amazing power – it gives the mom-to-be a chance to relax and to recover from the physical anxiety connected to labor pain. A study published in British Medical Journal proves the advantages of water procedures.
Women who had been giving birth for the first time took part in the study. Nearly 66 percent of the women who gave traditional birth needed anesthesia. The figure reached only 47 percent in the case of giving birth in the water.
One of the main arguments in favor of water birth is that it is less traumatizing for the child. The water protects the baby from the sudden change in temperature and environment that comes with the birth.
Further, once it is delivered, the baby can be confused by the strong sounds and unusual smells. Medical studies have come to disprove this claim, confirming that the level of sound reaching the uterus is intense, while new sensations like smells tend to stimulate the baby’s brain.
Arguments against Water Birth
Though the option sounds tempting, some shortcomings need to be considered before a final decision is taken.
Water birth is connected to some risks and complications. These occur infrequently but the chances of something going wrong exist. Water birth can be connected to hydro-embolism – water getting into the baby’s bloodstream. Because of this threat, many medics ask the mom-to-be to get out of the bathtub or pool immediately before birth takes place.
Women having a narrow pelvis will have difficulties delivering in the water. This option will also be unsuitable for a larger baby, for ladies suffering from diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
The lungs of the unborn child are well-developed. Thus, the baby could try to get some air as soon as it is born. In such instances, giving birth in the water will become dangerous as the baby will be taking in water rather than air.
If you are considering a water birth, you will have to examine the option carefully. Many hospitals already offer it alongside traditional birth methods. Study the experience of the team, as well as the equipment available. Follow your instincts but do your best to make an informed decision.