Some hospitals employ "water labor" to alleviate birthing pain, allowing mothers to soak in a bathtub or massage tub filled with warm water until the cervix is nearly fully dilated. They then transfer to a birthing bed to complete delivery. However, precautions must be taken to prevent risks during the transition from the tub or relaxation pool to the birthing bed—such as maternal slips or precipitous labor. In China, midwives still perform episiotomies on mothers who labor in water.
Water birth is merely one method of natural childbirth, offering expectant mothers an additional option for a natural delivery. Childbirth is an inevitable process in human reproduction. Diversifying birthing methods to return human delivery to its natural state and reduce medical intervention has become a consensus. Objectively, water birth has also contributed to lowering cesarean section rates.
Who is eligible for water birth?
1.The optimal age range for water birth is 20-30 years old. Women younger than 20 may lack sufficient psychological preparation, while those over 30 are considered "advanced maternal age." Due to physiological factors, cesarean delivery is generally recommended for this group.
2. Women with medical conditions or a history of miscarriage should opt for a more secure delivery method. Medical conditions can often trigger complications, leading to unnecessary harm.
3. Women carrying macrosomic fetuses (over 7 jin/3.5kg) are unsuitable for water birth.
Individuals unsuitable for water birth:
Those significantly older or younger; those with medical conditions; those unaware of their condition during prenatal care; those carrying macrosomic fetuses; those with a history of miscarriage; those carrying twins or multiples; those at risk of preterm labor; those whose membranes have ruptured for over 24 hours, etc.
What Experts Say
Polish obstetricians and gynecologists advocate for water birth, citing its benefits: faster delivery reduces maternal trauma and lowers infant hypoxia risks; mothers can rest and reposition more easily in water than on a delivery bed; warm water also alleviates labor pain.
The mother lies in a bathtub with water maintained at 36–37°C (97–98°F), matching body temperature, while the ambient temperature should ideally be 26°C (79°F). The water must be sterilized to prevent infection and ensure safety. The water is changed several times throughout labor, and the newborn should remain in the water for no longer than one minute after birth. Experts note that infants delivered this way are generally healthy.
However, in the United States where water births are more prevalent, despite a growing number of hospitals offering this option, most experts maintain a "wait-and-see" stance—neither opposing nor endorsing it. The renowned American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists does not have water birth facilities, and midwifery schools refrain from taking positions. Experts continue to await definitive research findings.