Water birth: Expert answers to the 7 most frequently asked questions

The water birth method, which has come to the fore among natural birth options in recent years, is being researched with interest by expectant mothers, especially in the final stages of pregnancy. Obstetrician and Gynecologist Dr. Refika Gasimova answered seven key questions about this method, ranging from its processes and benefits to potential risks and common misconceptions.

WHAT IS WATER BIRTH AND HOW DOES IT TAKE PLACE?

Water birth is a delivery method where the mother stays in a sterile, controlled birthing pool with water maintained at a constant temperature between 35-37°C during the labor and pushing stages of birth. This pool is wide enough for the mother to move comfortably and offers a special environment that facilitates birth. Throughout the birthing process, the mother benefits from the relaxing effect of the warm water; while muscle load decreases due to the buoyancy of the water, the sense of privacy and comfort increases.

BENEFITS FOR MOTHER AND BABY

The relaxation provided by warm water reduces pain and spasms; muscles work more easily, and the duration of labor may be shortened. Furthermore, the sense of privacy is strengthened in a body relaxed by the effect of warm water, and positive effects are observed on the psychology of birth. Dr. Gasimova says, “In a water birth, the mother feels safer and can be more comfortable psychologically because she has less contact with the environment.”

For the baby, the transition from the water-filled environment in the womb to a similar environment in the birthing pool ensures a gentler and softer birth experience. Blood and oxygen flow are not affected during this process, and thanks to the skin-to-skin contact made immediately upon birth, the mother-baby bond is strengthened and the release of the oxytocin hormone increases.

IN WHICH CASES IS WATER BIRTH SUITABLE?

Not every expectant mother may be suitable for a water birth. Dr. Gasimova states, “Water birth can be recommended for mothers whose pregnancy process progresses without complications, who are expecting a single baby, and whose health status is suitable. Water birth is not recommended in cases requiring a cesarean section, multiple pregnancies, breech presentations, and high-risk pregnancies. A doctor's evaluation is absolutely necessary before the procedure.”

IS THERE A RISK OF THE BABY SWALLOWING WATER?

One of the biggest concerns about water birth is the thought that the baby might swallow water. However, Dr. Gasimova explains, “The baby already lives in a watery environment in the womb. During birth, they do not swallow water as a reflex; they take their first breath as soon as they are out of the water. When performed with an experienced team, this risk is extremely low.”

RISKS OF WATER BIRTH AND COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS

The hygiene of the birthing pool and the suitability of the water temperature are very important for the safety of a water birth. In water births performed with experienced teams, the risk of infection is minimized; furthermore, due to the relaxing effect of the water, the need for an episiotomy or stitches may decrease. According to Dr. Gasimova, one of the most common concerns is the risk of infection, but this can be significantly prevented when sufficient hygiene and sterilization are provided.

Emphasizing that water birth is not recommended for twin, breech, or post-cesarean pregnancies, Dr. Gasimova says, “Every birth is individual, therefore the decision regarding the suitability of the method should be made by taking all medical data into consideration.”

Another common misconception is that water birth completely eliminates the need for medical intervention; however, in a situation requiring emergency intervention, it is necessary to exit the pool quickly and access the required medical support.

Water birth is a method that requires addressing concerns, approaching with accurate information, and necessitates an experienced specialist and safe conditions. Making an informed decision in line with the expectant mothers' personal health status and their doctors' recommendations plays a critical role in completing the process healthily.

News Source: 12punto