Dive into Comfort: Why Water Birth Might Be Right for You
Benefits of Water Birth: A Gentle Wave to Motherhood!
Water births are becoming an increasingly popular choice for expectant mothers seeking a more natural and soothing birthing experience. Believe it or not, for many women, water birth offers a surprisingly calming and potentially less painful birthing experience. Forget the stereotypical image of labour as a tense, sterile environment.
Studies suggest water immersion during labour can shorten its duration and even reduce the need for pain medication.
Intrigued? While statistics vary by region, globally, water birth is becoming an increasingly popular choice. So, ditch the white-knuckled grip on the hospital bed rails and explore the possibilities of a water birth. This guide will explore the benefits of water birth, considerations, and everything you need to know to decide if this method of giving birth is the right path for your own birthing journey.
What is Water Birth?
A water birth involves spending part or all of your labour and delivery in a deep pool of warm water. Many women choose water birth for the calmer, more relaxed environment, reduced pain, and lower risk of vaginal tearing. The process is managed by a team of experts, including experienced midwifery & nursing staff.
Dr Aparna Gumma, one of the best female gynaecologist in Dubai, offers highly precise and professional guidance to ensure all your health needs are met during a water birth.
Health Parameters for Water Delivery Dubai
- Full-term, low-risk pregnancy
- Free of infections and other medical conditions
- Expecting a single baby, not multiple
- No history of high blood pressure
- No bleeding disorders
- No complications during pregnancy or labour
- Must meet pre-pregnancy BMI requirements
What can you expect during a water birth?
During labour and delivery, you can expect the following steps:
- Water temperature is maintained between 35°-37° C during the first stage of labour.
- The baby’s heartbeat is monitored every 15 minutes.
- Your pulse is checked every 30 minutes, and your temperature every hour.
- Entonox (gas and air) is additional pain relief used in the pool.
- The water level is kept above your uterus.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
When the baby is born, the water temperature is increased to 37° C, ensuring birth occurs underwater. Immediate skin-to-skin contact is encouraged.
Water Birth – What to wear
You can choose to wear whatever makes you feel most comfortable during a water birth. Some women prefer to be naked to allow for unrestricted movement and immediate skin-to-skin contact with their baby. Others may opt for a cropped top, bikini top, or T-shirt.
Is a Water Birth the same as a natural birth?
A water birth is a preferred choice for women seeking fewer interventions during labour. While “natural childbirth” involves minimal medical interventions, there is no “unnatural birth”—every experience is unique.
Our gynaecologist supports holistic births with minimal interventions unless necessary. This includes prenatal education, patient-led interventions, and shared decision-making. Women may opt for hydrotherapy or water birth for comfort, as warm water can enhance relaxation and reduce pain by boosting endorphin levels.
What are the potential benefits of water birth?
Various studies indicate the potential benefits of water birth, although further research is needed. Women who have chosen water birth often report positive experiences. For many, water births are soothing, reducing stress and calming their newborns. Hydrotherapy, where women labour but do not deliver in water, also shows the positive sides of this birth method.
Reported advantages include:
- A more relaxing birth experience due to the warm water’s calming effect, which may lower blood pressure.
- Shorter labour, as water buoyancy aids movement and contractions.
- Reduced need for pain medication, with warm water promoting relaxation and endorphin release.
- Increased presence and connection to the birth experience due to manageable pain levels.
Experience the Comfort of Water Birth with Dr Aparna Gumma
Considering a water birth?
Our best female gynaecologist in Dubai, Dr Aparna Gumma, offers an inviting and soothing experience, perfect for those seeking a gentle and natural birth process. With her expertise, you’ll benefit from a relaxed environment that reduces stress and promotes smoother labour.
Enjoy the numerous advantages of water birth, such as increased comfort, reduced pain, and a deeper connection to your birthing experience.
Feel free to ask Dr Aparna to guide you through this empowering and serene journey, ensuring you and your baby are well-cared for every step of the way.
About Dr Aparna
Dr Aparna Devi Gumma, female gynaecologist in Dubai, is one of the most trusted partners in women’s health with over 28 years of expertise as an Ob-Gyn and Advanced Gynecologic Laparoscopic Surgeon.
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