Forum The birth

water birth

9 replies

minion83
Hi there,

Our hospital offers water births. Has anyone here got experience with it? From what I’ve heard, you can give birth without pain relief? Less chance of tearing. Two things I’m quite keen on. But I’ve also heard that it’s quite messy to give birth underwater and that you have to be completely naked. Are there any mums who have experience with this?

Greetings

Replies

  1. Iza #2

    That's so nice that this is possible in the hospital! It can indeed help make the contractions more manageable, the chance of tearing or needing an episiotomy is minimal, and bringing your little one into the world is also much gentler because they don't have to start breathing right away but can gradually adjust to the new environment. Yes, the water does get dirty, but you'd have to sit in a bath for hours/days for it to cause any infections or anything like that. And you're closely monitored in the hospital anyway. I'd definitely go for it though

  2. Dame #3

    The reason I’m also opting for a water birth is partly because everything stays more relaxed down there, and you can better handle your contractions. If you can relax well in the bath, you become even more relaxed. And well, the mess—just let the water drain, rinse yourself off, and you’re instantly freshened up and can lie in a clean bed with your baby. Otherwise, all that mess ends up in your bed, which is great!

    When is your due date? I’m really curious whether you’ve given birth yet or not.

  3. Poesh #4

    I'm also really open to a water birth.
    The two downsides I've read about are that you have less grip to push and that the risk of infection for the baby is higher if the labor lasts longer. I'd love to hear your experiences if you've given birth in water. It's also an option at our hospital.

  4. minion83 started this #5

    Thank you for your responses,
    I think I'll go for it. Of course, everything has to go well. My due date is early November. Meanwhile, we've seen the rooms for the water birth. Those rooms make you forget you're in a hospital. Beautifully decorated, warm colors, option for your own music. I'll try to put my favorite songs on the iPod.
    Once it's over, I'll definitely let you know how it went.
    As preparation, you can also do prenatal physio in the pool.
    When is your due date?

  5. Poesh #6

    I'm only 6 weeks pregnant, so due date is end of February normally

  6. minion83 started this #7

    A big congratulations to you, poesh,
    I'll definitely keep you posted.
    We're going for another ultrasound on Monday. Those are such sweet moments that I'm really looking forward to.
    Curious how much our little thing (we say that to avoid revealing the gender) has grown now.

  7. Dame #8

    I'm due on September 9th, so I hope to share my experience about a water birth here.

  8. Poesh #9

    Thank you so much, minion.
    I have my first ultrasound next Thursday, I hope everything is okay.

  9. Josje #10

    I'm really curious to hear your experiences!
    I also want to have a water birth, and that's possible at the maternity hotel of a hospital near us. I've already signed up there.
    As for water contamination: can't you just refresh the water in between? Or am I saying something completely silly?

Add your reply

Share what helped you, or ask a question.

Sign in to join the conversation.

Continue with Google

Takes a moment. You’ll come straight back here to reply.