Exploring Waterbirth Benefits: A Gentle Start for Your Baby

I’ve had the honor of attending many waterbirths as a doula. There’s always something extra special about being able to witness a baby transitions from the womb to the water to mom’s arms. 

Many expecting parents are drawn to the idea of waterbirth—a method that allows labor and delivery to take place in a warm birthing tub. While hospitals in Iowa do not currently offer water birth, families interested in this option can explore homebirth midwifery care. If you’re considering this approach, reaching out to a homebirth midwife for a consultation can help you determine if it’s the right fit for you. Currently in Iowa, we have both CPMs and CNMs attending homebirths. I’m always happy to chat about your options! 

Waterbirth Benefits: Comfort and Pain Relief

One of the biggest reasons parents choose waterbirth is the natural pain relief it provides. Waterbirths have been around for many, many generations! Warm water helps relax muscles, reduces stress, and promotes a sense of calm during labor. Studies suggest that laboring in water can shorten the duration of labor and decrease the need for epidurals or other pain medications. The buoyancy of water also allows for greater mobility, making it easier to find comfortable positions during contractions.

Additionally, waterbirth has been linked to lower rates of perineal tearing, as the water provides a gentle cushion for the baby’s emergence. Many parents describe the experience as empowering, with a greater sense of control over their birthing process.

Here’s a link to my favorite resource for Waterbirths! Evidence on Waterbirth

A Gentle Transition for Baby

Babies born in water experience a smoother transition from the womb to the outside world. The warm water mimics the amniotic fluid environment, reducing the shock of birth. Some research suggests that babies born in water may have lower stress levels compared to those born without water. 

While concerns about safety exist, studies indicate that waterbirth does not increase the risk of complications for healthy pregnancies. However, it’s essential to work with an experienced homebirth midwife who can monitor both mother and baby throughout the process.

What does the Research Say?

Finally, for parents who want the science/data, here are some quick findings from recent studies on safety with links to the studies below. 

1. Aughey et al. (2021): This study analyzed over 46,000 births in England and found that waterbirth was associated with lower rates of postpartum hemorrhage and neonatal unit admissions. There was no increased risk of low Apgar scores or severe perineal tearing, suggesting that waterbirth is a safe option for low-risk pregnancies.
2. Sanders et al. (2024): The POOL study examined water birth safety across multiple maternity units in the UK. It found that waterbirth did not increase the risk of adverse maternal or neonatal outcomes, including infections or breathing difficulties. The study emphasized the importance of proper monitoring and midwifery-led care to ensure safety.
3. Allkins (2024): This research reviewed over 73,000 births and concluded that waterbirth is as safe as traditional land birth for women without complications. It highlighted that women who labor in water report greater relaxation and control, and that effective cleaning protocols mitigate infection risks.

These studies provide strong evidence supporting the safety of waterbirth when conducted under appropriate conditions.

Sources: 

Aughey, H., Jardine, J., Moitt, N., Fearon, K., Hawdon, J., Pasupathy, D., Urganci, I., & Harris, T. (2021). Waterbirth: A national retrospective cohort study of factors associated with its use among women in England. BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, 21(256). Retrieved from BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth.

Sanders, J., Brocklehurst, P., Cannings-John, R., Channon, S., Gale, C., Holmes, A., Hunter, B., Paranjothy, S., Lugg-Widger, F. V., Milosevic, S., Morantz, L., Plachcinski, R., Nolan, M., & Robling, M. (2024). Establishing the safety of waterbirth for mothers and babies: A cohort study with nested qualitative component. BMJ Open, 11(1), e040684. Retrieved from BMJ Open.

Allkins, S. (2024). Safety of water births: New research. British Journal of Midwifery, 32(9). Retrieved from British Journal of Midwifery.