Water birth is a type of childbirth and is a method used to relieve the labor pains of the expectant mother, to make her more relaxed during labor and to make the labor process more natural. Water birth relieves pain during childbirth by taking advantage of the relaxing effects of water and helps the expectant mother to feel more comfortable.
For those who want to know about how a water birth occurs, during a water birth, the expectant mother usually gives birth in a large water-filled pool or bathtub. The expectant mother who gives birth in the pool feels more comfortable thanks to the relaxing effect of water and the severity of labor pains decreases. Since the temperature of the pool is similar to the temperature of the expectant mother, the baby’s skin adapts more comfortably.
Advantages of Water Birth
The advantages of water birth include the easing of labor pains, the formation of a more comfortable and natural environment during labor, the shorter duration of the labor process and the faster postpartum healing process. However, among the disadvantages of water birth are factors such as the risk of infection that may occur during childbirth, the inability to control the temperature of the water and inability to intervene when an emergency intervention is required during childbirth.
Water birth may not be suitable for every expectant mother. In particular, depending on the health status of the expectant mothers and the condition of the baby, doctors may not recommend water birth. However, for expectant mothers with healthy pregnancies, water birth is a preferable option for those who want to experience a natural childbirth.
As a result, water birth is a method used to relieve labor pains and make the labor process more relaxing. However, it should be remembered that water birth is not suitable for every expectant mother. It is important to discuss about water birth with the doctor before childbirth and to determine the birth plan together.
