While water births have grown popular with expectant mothers in recent years, the practice has been around for much longer. Recognized as a welcoming method of bringing your baby into the world, the certified nurse-midwives at Home Birth with Love recommend this and other types of home births to women in Suffern, NY. Below they expand on the history of this practice, which has been used in countries all over the world.

The Past & Present of Water Births 

1. Early History

While rumors persist about women giving birth in ancient seas, this practice seems to have originated in the Western world within the recent past. In 1805, a French woman experienced a difficult birth that left her doctor challenged. To provide relief, she was placed in a warm bath where labor progressed quickly and far more easily than it had previously. This led some in the medical community to delve deeper into the concept of water births.

2. Europe 

Throughout the 60s and 70s, Europe proved to be a leader in water labor. A Russian doctor posited that water temperature could play a role in a baby’s mental development, which led to a short experiment in cold water births. Research was also conducted among French doctors and midwives around the same time, many of whom believed that medical deliveries could be traumatic for the baby. Along with benefits to the newborns, who appeared calmer after birth, mothers also experienced diminished pain and discomfort when giving birth in water.

3. Recent Developments

The popularity of water births has increased in the last 30 years. Special training has been developed based on the above research, which allows midwives to access important information they can utilize during a water birth. Training has also boosted confidence in the practice, which can occur within a home setting or at a hospital. Additionally, many people are now in search of natural approaches health and wellness, and this search has expanded to the birthing process.

Home Birth with Love believes that all women deserve a natural birthing experience, which can facilitate a stronger bond with their newborns. They offer a wide range of services to women in Suffern, from help with contraception to post-partum issues. Call (845) 641-5058 today to schedule a consultation with a skilled and compassionate midwife. Learn more about water birth by visiting them online.