Benefits
Much like the soothing effect of a warm bath, being submerged in warm water can bring a sense of calm and relaxation to a woman in labor. It can decrease pain perception and anxiety, leading to the release of natural oxytocin, which boosts labor. The warm water also provides softening and increased circulation of the skin and muscles of the woman’s perineum during birth. This promotes stretching and may result in less tearing or trauma.
Risks
Your immersion in the pool could make it more difficult for your healthcare provider to manage an emergency during delivery. There is also a risk that your baby will inhale water. While this is a risk, babies have a protective mechanism that prevents them from breathing during the few seconds it takes to bring them to the surface of the water after they are born.
A water birth is not the right choice for all situations, so it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider early and throughout your pregnancy to ensure it’s a good option for you.
