whats a water birth like? and does it slow down the labour alotor just a little?

Answer 1

I had a wonderful water birth..........I didn't get into the pool until I was about 9cms dilated, (I used gas and air and bounced on the birthing ball until that point) getting into the pool was just like having a huge warm hug.....It was amazing and I didn't get any contractions for about 10 mins which was bliss..........The next few contractions came and were definitely more bearable in the water, the pushing was easier in the water (1st baby born on a bed) You do have a little more freedom of movement because the water helps to support your weight. My daughter was born just 30 mins after getting in the pool and I felt more relaxed immediately after delivery because I was in the pool and it was still warm and cosy. Follow advise of your midwife but definitely get in that pool !!!!! Huge Luck XXX

Answer 2

I haven't personally given birth in water because when I had my babies such a thing was unheard of. However, as a midwife I have helped many women give birth in water. From a carers point of view I can highly recommend it as without exception all of the women I have cared for in the pool have coped much better. I have had several first time mums who have used no other form of pain relief. As for slowing down the labour there is little evidence that if you enter the pool when you are established that the labour is slower, in fact the opposite is often true and labour can be quicker. This is probably because you are so relaxed in the pool that your body releases more endorphins, your bodies natural pain killers. It also releases far less adrenaline when you are calm and relaxed and adrenaline interferes with the natural process of labour by reducing the effects of oxytocin, the hormone that makes your womb contract and aslo reduces the amount of endorphins. Occasionally some women find that contractions do become less frequent or strong on first entering the pool but usually this is for only a short while, and if labour does appear to be too slow you can always get out of the pool, contractions usually come back quite soon after you do. Give it a go girl and good luck.

Answer 3

Gravity does help when giving birth. Thats why crouching if often the quickest way rather than lying on your back on a hospital bed. I known some women who say labour was extended because of being in a pool for a water birth. However there are other comforts of being in water so I suppose it is a trade off.

Answer 4

I was in the pool for a few hours and it has helped me cope with the pain quite well. It also took the pressure off my back more. However I gave birth on the bed and must admit things progressed more once I got out, but also the pain intensified. I suppose it is hard to tell whether one is linked to the other or if it was just a normal natural progression. It all has its positives and negatives.

Answer 5

a water birth means you give birth under water. like in a pool but you leave your head out. it's meant to make it alot easier.