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When it comes time to welcome your baby into the world, there are a variety of delivery options you can explore. One natural method that continues to grow in popularity with women interested in home delivery is a water birth. If you’re unfamiliar with this process, here are a few common questions answered. 

Top 4 Questions About Water Births

What is a water birth?

Water BirthIn this practice, the mother sits in a tub of warm water and gives birth to the child in the tub. This type of labor was introduced in 1991 and is a popular method for women interested in home birth. In comparison to bed labors, women who opt for water births frequently lose less blood and are significantly less likely to require an episiotomy.

What are the benefits of a water birth?

Many pregnant women and midwives celebrate this option, as it naturally relaxes the body and reduces pain. Additionally, the buoyancy of water makes the woman feel lighter and switching positions is much easier. Sitting in warm water can also reduce stress, pain hormones, and vaginal tearing. Many expectant mothers are also drawn to this process as they feel more connected to their bodies and can listen to their instincts during labor. 

How do you prepare your home for a water birth?

In the days leading up to your delivery date, prepare an open space in your home where you wish to deliver. Work with your midwife on renting an adequate birthing tub that fits within your home. Prepare plenty of clean towels and sheets and pack a bag in your car in the rare event that you need to make a quick transfer to a hospital. Most importantly, stay in constant communication with your midwife, doctor, and partner so you confirm you have all the necessary resources.  

When is it time to get into the water?

For some mothers, getting into warm water too early can stop contractions or slow down labor. As such, it’s recommended that you wait until your cervix is at least five centimeters dilated before getting into a birthing tub. The timing can vary from one woman to another, so it’s best to work with a trained midwife when selecting this home birth option. 

 

 

Home Birth with Love, owned by certified Nurse Midwife Leah Marinelli, has been helping pregnant mothers throughout New York’s Suffern, Rockland, Bergen, Westchester, and Orange counties, as well as Bergen County, NJ, deliver babies in comfortable environments for over 17 years. If you’re interested in water birth, call today at (845) 641-5058 to schedule a consultation. For more information on their services and unique approach to care, visit their website

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