Water Tub for Home or Hospital Birth

Water Tub for Home or Hospital Birth
by Teal

For some mothers the option to birth in water provides a sense of comfort, relaxation, privacy, and support. Warm water is inherently calming and relaxing in the most stressful of circumstances. While not necessarily appropriate for all births, it is becoming more popular, and should be accessible to all women who are interested. It would be wonderful if every hospital had birthing tubs available for women who wish to utilize them! Some women like to get in the tub to relax and then get out to actually have the baby.
The term “aquadural” is sometimes used to refer to the birthing tub because women experience a reduction in analgesia requirements- some pain relief!
Birthing tubs were present in few hospitals in the US in 1987. By 1996 more hospitals had them, and today hundreds of hospitals offer that option. The water in the birth pool is around 97-99 degrees Fahrenheit. Towels are placed around the tub. Being in a water pool can enhance the ability to breath and focus, and it also allows for more flexibility of movement. This can speed labor, and provide a feeling of greater autonomy.
For video or photos of water birth please click the link below:

Looking into including a Doula in the birth experience? A Doula is a woman who offers support before, during, and after the birth, and has extensive knowledge and experience in guiding the birthing mother www.DONA.org

Books on the subject of birth worth checking out:

“Artemis Speaks” by Nan Koehler
“Lotus Birth” by Shivam Rachana
“Spiritual Midwifery” by Ina May Gaskin
“Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year” by Susun Weed
“Hygieia: A Woman’s Herbal” by Jeannine Parvati Baker
For further research please see:
www.waterbirth.org
www.yourwaterbirth.com
www.sbbirthcenter.org
www.gentlebirth.org
www.birthsanctuary.com
www.thebirthcenter.org

Whether by water, home, hospital, or C-section, birth is the most wonderful gift and a true celebration of life!