Are birth pools actually helpful in labor?
Are Birth Pools actually helpful in labor?
Let’s dive into the benefits of water birth (no pun intended... okay, maybe it was a little intentional) 💧👶
When it comes to childbirth, expectant parents are often bombarded with options and advice about how to make the experience as smooth and comfortable as possible. One option that’s been gaining popularity is using a "birth pool" for labor and/or delivery.
But the big question is, do birth pools actually help?
In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at what water birth entails and explore the potential benefits and downsides, so you can decide if a birth pool might be the right choice for you.
What is a birth pool?
A birth pool is exactly what it sounds like—a large, inflatable or specially designed tub filled with warm water. It’s often used in a water birth, where a person labors and often delivers their baby in the water.
Some people use the pool just for labor (to help manage pain and stay relaxed), while others stay in it for the actual birth. Birth pools can be found in some hospitals, birthing centers, or even at home under the care of a midwife or trained healthcare provider.
The benefits of using a Birth Pool:
1. Pain relief and relaxation
One of the biggest draws of birth pools is their ability to provide natural pain relief. The buoyancy of the water takes the weight off your body, making it easier to move and find comfortable positions during labor. The warmth of the water can also have a calming effect, helping your muscles to relax and reducing tension.
Studies show that laboring in water may reduce the need for pain medications like epidurals. Some people describe it as a soothing, almost spa-like experience—certainly more relaxing than laboring on a hospital bed!
2. Shorter labor
There’s some evidence that using a birth pool can help to speed up labor. The relaxation brought on by the warm water may help your body release endorphins and oxytocin (the "love hormone"), which can assist in progressing labor. This is especially true for the early stages, where stress and tension might otherwise slow things down.
3. Greater mobility
Unlike being confined to a bed, the buoyancy of water allows you to move more freely. You can easily shift positions to ease discomfort, squat, kneel, or float, which can help your body open up and aid the baby’s descent through the birth canal. Many people appreciate this sense of control and flexibility, which can contribute to a more empowering birth experience.
4. A gentle birth for baby
For babies, the transition from the womb to the outside world can be jarring. Being born into water is thought to offer a gentler transition. Since they’ve been floating in amniotic fluid for nine months, entering warm water may feel familiar and calming. Advocates of water birth believe this can result in a smoother, less traumatic experience for the newborn.
5. Reduced need for interventions
Some research suggests that people who labor in water may have a lower risk of needing medical interventions like episiotomies or assisted deliveries with forceps or vacuum. The water can help soften the perineum, potentially reducing the risk of tearing during delivery.
The downsides to consider:
While birth pools offer many potential benefits, it’s important to consider some potential downsides and limitations as well.
1. It’s not for everyone
Water birth isn’t suitable for all pregnancies. If you have certain complications like high blood pressure, preterm labor, or a breech baby, your healthcare provider may advise against it. Always consult with your doctor or midwife to determine if a water birth is safe for you and your baby.
2. Temperature control is key
Water temperature plays a big role in safety. The water needs to stay at a comfortable, controlled temperature. If it’s too hot, it can increase your body temperature, which can be dangerous for you and the baby. Most hospitals and birthing centers are well-equipped to monitor this, but it's something to keep in mind, especially for home births.
3. Limited pain relief options
If you’re hoping to keep things as natural as possible, a birth pool might be a great option. However, if you find the pain is more than you anticipated, you might need to leave the water to receive stronger pain relief options like an epidural or other medications, which aren’t compatible with water birth.
4. Potential for infection
Although rare, there is a slight risk of infection for both the birthing parent and baby if the water is not properly sanitized. Most professionals and facilities take extensive measures to ensure water is clean and safe, but it’s still something to consider, especially for home births where you’ll need to manage the cleanliness of the pool yourself.
What do the studies say?
Research on water births is generally positive, especially when it comes to the benefits of laboring in water. Many studies have found that water birth can help reduce pain and may lead to shorter labor, fewer interventions, and a more satisfying birth experience overall. However, when it comes to the safety of delivering the baby in the water, the evidence is more mixed.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recognizes the benefits of water immersion during labor but advises caution about delivering in water due to limited data on long-term outcomes for babies. If you’re considering a water birth, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons and discuss them with your healthcare provider.
So, do Birth Pools actually help?
For many people, the answer is a resounding yes! Birth pools can provide a more comfortable, natural way to manage labor pain, potentially shorten labor, and create a calm and soothing environment for both you and your baby.
However, they may not be the best choice for everyone, and like any birth plan, flexibility is key.
If you’re curious about water birth, talk to your healthcare provider or midwife. With the right support and preparation, a birth pool could be the perfect addition to your birth experience! 🌊👶💖
Would you consider a water birth? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!
Sincerely,
Kelsey & the Joyleta team
p.s. Make sure you bring along a sports bra or swim top for your water birth!