According to historical records, water birth originated in early 19th-century France. Internationally recognized as a "return to nature" birthing method, it is valued for shorter labor duration, reduced pain, and smaller perineal tears.The principle is based on the baby's development in the mother's amniotic fluid. Contacting water at the moment of birth stabilizes both the infant and mother. Utilizing the buoyancy of water, the mother can deliver naturally with less exertion, and postpartum recovery is accelerated by nearly double.
This is a specialized delivery room where expectant mothers soak in a waist-deep "birth pool" resembling a massage bathtub. Guided by midwives, they practice proper breathing techniques and relaxation, gradually welcoming a new life into the world...
This scientific yet unconventional birthing method is gradually gaining public acceptance. Reporters learned that since the first water-born infant arrived at Changning Maternity and Child Health Hospital last March, over 110 babies have been safely delivered in water over the past year. Doctors note that due to shorter labor, reduced pain, minimal trauma, and lower overall costs compared to cesarean sections, demand for this option has been enthusiastic.
At the hospital, a special delivery room houses a birthing pool resembling a massage bathtub. Expectant mothers soak in waist-deep water within this pool. Under midwife guidance, they practice proper breathing and relaxation techniques. Partners may accompany them or enter the water to assist directly during delivery. Slowly, a new life safely enters the world.
This large birthing tub, imported at considerable expense from the United States, costs over 40,000 yuan. It represents the world's most advanced water birth technology and is spacious enough for both parents to enter the water together. The water formula is uniquely designed to mimic amniotic fluid conditions, maintained at a constant 37 degrees Celsius with continuous circulation.
Additionally, the hospital is pioneering a scientifically advanced "couple-assisted water birth" approach.Whereas previously only the wife entered the birthing tub, now husbands can accompany their partners in the water. The husband assists his wife during labor, providing emotional and physical support to facilitate a smoother delivery. However, to date, only two husbands—both foreign nationals—have opted for this "couple's water birth" approach.