What is a Water Birth?

Water birth is the process of giving birth in a tub of warm water.

The theory at the center of water birth is that since the baby has already been in the amniotic fluid sac for 40 weeks, birthing in a similar environment is gentler for the baby and less stressful for the mother.

Warm water also promotes relaxation of the muscle which may decrease the pain sensation for the mother.

Many women find the warm water soothing and labor in the birthing pool/tub but then later decide they want to deliver outside of the tub.

What are the qualifications for birthing in water?

• You must be at least 37 weeks

• Amniotic fluid must be clear

• Baby must be head down

• No significant risk factors can exist - no hypertension (high blood pressure), gestational diabetes, etc.