Utilizing Water For Pain Management in Labor & Birth

Jun 6

Phoenix, Arizona Birth Photography & Videography

You’ve heard of water birth, but what about just laboring in water? Yup, it’s a thing, and you can do it if you’d like.

“What about if i’m giving birth in a hospital?” Some hospitals do have tubs available for laboring! Sometimes you might need to request this beforehand. Some hospitals also have a shower large enough for you and your partner to be in together. This is a great alternative to the tub, as well. Most hospitals do not allow you to give birth in the tub, but welcome you to wade the waters of labor land.

“Do birth centers have birth tubs?” Yes. In fact, birth centers usually have a tub AND a shower for use while in labor, and they do allow you to give birth in them.

“I’m having a home birth, but my bathtub is so small” Most mothers that decide to have a home birth, but would like to option to labor and or give birth in the water will opt for a birth pool. You can rent or buy them. Birth SPECIFIC pools, like the La Bassine, are not your only option. They are, however, sturdy, and have handles. Some have a cup holder, (ooh, fancy) and many have a cushioned bottom. They aren’t cheap, but many decide to use a liner, and re-sell the tub. If you would like a more budget-friendly option, the “fishy pool”, is a great option!

Benefits of laboring in the water:

Buoyancy from water (floating) helps to relieve back pain and pelvic pressure, while still letting the baby engage to pass through birth canal.
In studies, getting into the water has shown to decrease anxiety during labor, which helps the process tremendously to not be so tense. The ability to relax through your contractions is the main key to letting your body do the work it needs to.
Helps to reduce overall pain, and for many, provides enough relief to forego the need for pain medication. Laboring in water has been called mother nature’s epidural, and has been known to “melt away the pain”
The effectiveness of water can speed up the progress of labor, especially in the active phase.

“Why might someone choose to labor in water, but not give birth in water?”

While laboring in the water is very effective for many, it isn’t always what the mother prefers for giving birth. This is where choice of tub may possibly come into play. Having handles will give stability, and strong sides will make it easier to kneel against without collapsing. Some find it very difficult to bear down in the water as well. Finding a position in water that feels best can be difficult if you require something to pull while pushing. You may plan to have a water birth, and decide in the moment that it doesn’t feel effective for pushing anymore. It is always okay to change your mind based on how you feel.

Down sides to laboring in the water:

Getting in too early can actually slow labor. This is not always the case, but it can happen.
Other pain management techniques like an epidural, or a tens unit is not possible in water. If you decide to have an epidural, you would have to get out of the birth tub for this.
If continuous fetal monitoring is necessary, a hospital may not have the proper equipment (water-proof monitor) to be in water. This is something that you might consider asking the hospital or your OB.

Getting into the shower during labor

A shower is a great alternative to a tub, especially if you are not planning to give birth in the water. The combination of the warm water, and pressure of a shower is very helpful in creating a new and different sensation to focus on during contractions. Just like massage, water can be a sort of hydrotherapy to relax the tense muscles that tend to clench during labor. Many doulas will suggest a shower for some privacy with your partner, to help relax and progress.

”Is water safe for baby to be born into?”

Babies live in a sac full of amniotic fluid until they are born. A baby takes their first breath as soon as they hit the air because of the change in temperature. For this reason, the water will need to stay at a temperature of normal body temperature (96-100) if you plan to give birth in it. If the water cools down too low, this can trigger the baby to stimulate the gasp reflex. Babies are born unable to regulate their body temperature, so being born into the perfect temperature of water creates a smooth transition between worlds.

In conclusion:

Laboring and birthing in water is very helpful, effective and comforting.

If you are unsure if it is safe for you, you should contact your provider to discuss options. This is not medical advice and should not be taken as so. Always ask your provider what is best for you and your baby.

Carey Lauren Photography is a birth photographer & videographer specializing in birth photos & films serving all of Phoenix, Glendale, and Peoria, Surprise, Anthem, and Scottsdale, Arizona.