We all know how relaxing and soothing a warm bath can be, perhaps with a candle lit and soft music playing!
What are the benefits of a Water Birth?
Water is a great comfort measure for labour and birth.
Water is safe to use during labour and to birth your baby in.
At home you can use your bath or shower or hire a birthing pool.
At a Midwife Led Unit or Hospital, a pool can be used, depending upon whether your pregnancy is 'low risk' and upon availability.
Water is relaxing, and can reduce the discomfort of your surges.
Water helps to promote oxytocin, needed for your labour to progress.
Using water can reduce the need for other pain relief, can reduce the chance of you needing an episiotomy and can shorten your labour.
What else do I need to know?
Some Doulas rent out birth pools. I do!
You can buy or rent a pool from Barefoot Pools.
Your Doula or the rental company will provide instructions on how to set it up.
You can be naked in the pool, or wear a bikini top and swim skirt.
You may poo! It is common! The pool comes with a sieve!
Everyone is entitled to use water in their labour. However, there are occasions when it is not advised. Speak to your Doula or Midwife.
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