Water Birth
At Stand & Deliver you may choose to birth in the water.
We believe that when done safely, water birth is a beneficial mode of birth for both mother and baby. It allows relaxation and a reduction in needs for medical intervention. The American College of Nurse-Midwives and evidence-based practice research also supports the safety of water and birth. Once a laboring woman enters the water, she rarely wants to get out.
What To Expect
Relaxation for the mother due to warm water muscle relaxation and less pressure on the abdomen and uterus with contractions.
Less or no need for medical intervention.
Support and equal pressure on all parts of your body. You can easily change positions to find one that is the most comfortable.
Lower adrenaline (fight or flight response) levels, which theoretically results in better oxytocin and oxygen flow to you and increased blood supply to the uterus. As a result, contractions can be more efficient and baby receives more oxygen.
You can find a comfortable position more efficiently. Relax the pelvic floor to ease the descent of the baby through the birth canal.
Gentle transition for the baby as it is almost an exact replica of the womb environment: wet, warm, weightless and gentle.
Reduced risk of severe tearing and skin tissue trauma.
How Safe Is Water Birth?
It is believed that one of the main triggers for the newborn taking their first breath is contact with cool air.
Before birth, the baby receives oxygen through the umbilical cord. When the baby is born in the water, he/she still receives oxygen from the cord attached to the placenta, and is gently brought to the surface and into mom’s chest.
The baby’s first breath will happen in the mother’s arms, decreasing the trauma caused by the very first breath.
The tubs are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized, between each birth and each mother will have their own individual sterile liner.
The midwives carry a waterproof Doppler, which allows them to regularly check your baby’s heart rate and be sure baby is doing well without mom having to exit the tub.
The latest research shows water birth is just as safe as land birth. You can read the study below.