Water Birth

Water birth is a soothing and natural birthing option that allows mothers to labor in warm water, promoting relaxation, pain relief, and a smoother birth experience. This method helps mothers feel more in control, reducing stress and fostering a calm, peaceful labor.

Benefits of Water Birth

• Natural Pain Relief: Warm water acts as a natural analgesic, reducing labor pain and muscle tension.
• Enhanced Relaxation: Immersion in water creates a tranquil environment, reducing stress hormones and promoting the production of oxytocin, the hormone that drives labor.
• Better Mobility & Comfort: The buoyancy of water supports the mother’s body, making movement easier and allowing for better positioning during labor.
• Shorter Labor: Studies suggest that water births may help labor progress more quickly by reducing physical strain and encouraging effective contractions.
• Gentle Transition for Baby: The water environment mimics the amniotic fluid in the womb, easing the transition from the uterus to the outside world.
• Fewer Medical Interventions: Water birth can reduce the need for epidurals, labor-inducing drugs, and assisted deliveries, leading to a more natural experience.

Who Can Choose Water Birth?

Water birthing is ideal for women with healthy, low-risk pregnancies. You may be a good candidate if you:

• Are at full term (37+ weeks) with a single baby in a head-down position.
• Have had a complication-free pregnancy with no conditions such as preeclampsia or infections.
• Prefer a natural, intervention-free birthing experience with medical supervision available if needed.

How It Works

1. Labor in Water: Mothers enter the birthing pool once active labor begins. The warm water provides pain relief and helps conserve energy.

2. Birth in Water (Optional): The baby can be delivered in water, guided by experienced doctors and birth professionals.

3. Immediate Bonding: After birth, the baby is gently lifted onto the mother’s chest for skin-to-skin contact, ensuring warmth, bonding, and early breastfeeding.

Meet Our Certified Water Birth Practitioners at Bloom:

Our obstetrician, Dr. Merlin Kishore and Women's Health Physiotherapist and Doula, Dr. Kavitha Venkatesen, are Certified Water Birth Practitioners. They have successfully completed the Waterbirth Certification and Education Course from Waterbirth International, under the guidance of globally renowned expert Barbara Harper.

With a deep commitment to personalized care, Dr. Merlin ensures that every mother receives the guidance and support needed for a safe and empowering water birth experience. They provide comprehensive prenatal counseling, helping mothers understand what to expect and how to prepare for a water birth. During labor, they monitor progress closely, ensuring the optimal time to enter the pool and making necessary adjustments to enhance comfort and safety. Their expertise allows them to facilitate a smooth birthing process while being prepared for any required interventions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is water birth safe?
Yes, when done under the supervision of skilled professionals. At Bloom Women’s Centre, we follow strict safety protocols, ensuring both mother and baby are closely monitored throughout the process. Our experienced team are trained to handle water births safely, making it a reassuring option for expectant mothers.

2. Are there any conditions that make water birth unsafe?
Yes, water birth may not be suitable for mothers with high-risk pregnancies, preeclampsia, multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets), infections, or babies in a breech position.

3. Can I have a water birth if I’ve had a previous C-section?
In many cases, yes. Women who have had a previous C-section and are aiming for a Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) should consult their doctor to determine if water birth is an option.

4. How does the baby breathe during a water birth?
Babies have a natural "dive reflex" that prevents them from breathing until they are exposed to air. They receive oxygen through the umbilical cord until they are lifted out of the water.

5. Is there a risk of infection for the baby?
The risk of infection is low when proper hygiene and strict water quality protocols are followed. The birthing pool is thoroughly cleaned before each use.

6. Can my partner join me in the water?
Yes, partners are welcome to support the mother in the birthing pool, as long as they follow hygiene guidelines.

7. What happens immediately after a water birth?
The baby is gently lifted onto the mother’s chest for skin-to-skin contact. The umbilical cord is clamped and cut after it stops pulsing. Post-birth checks are done while ensuring warmth and comfort.

8. Will I need pain relief during a water birth?
Many mothers find the warm water provides significant pain relief. However, if additional pain relief is needed, alternative options can be discussed with your care provider.

9. Can I breastfeed after a water birth?
Yes! Skin-to-skin contact in the water helps initiate breastfeeding naturally. Our team provides support to ensure a smooth start to your breastfeeding journey.

Book a Consultation

Interested in a water birth experience at Bloom Women’s Centre? Schedule a consultation with our experts to discuss your birth plan.