Water Birth at Austin Area Birthing Center
Water birth is becoming an increasingly popular choice and offers numerous benefits for labor and birth. Submerging in water promotes relaxation, easing back pain and discomfort experienced during labor.
It is a great choice for mothers opting for a natural birth. Additionally, it poses minimal risks to both the mother and the baby, making it an attractive option for many.
Are the birth suites set up for water birth?
Yes, all of Austin Area Birthing Center’s birth suites can be used for water birth. Each birth suite is equipped with a soaking tub that can be for labor pain management during the initial stages or for a water birth if the client wishes to have one.
How long can I be in the water?
You can stay in the water for as long as you want during labor. There are no specific time limits that indicate when you should or should not be in the water.
Some mothers like to spend the initial stages of their labor in water to lessen the discomfort from contractions and then come out when they’re in the active stage to birth outside, while others choose to give birth while they’re in the water.
We will ask that you exit the tub if labor contractions slow down so you can walk around a little bit. We also recommend getting out for postpartum checkups.
What does water help with?
We like to call water a ‘natural epidural.’ Water can provide significant pain relief during challenging parts of labor and help you achieve the birth you desire. Some other benefits of water birth include:
- It may result in shorter labor as the buoyancy of water makes pushing efficient
- Lesser need for pain medication
- Lesser risk of tearing
- Lesser risk of an emergency C-section
Is water birth safe for the baby?
Yes, according to the research available, there is no significant risk associated with water birth for the baby. While there are concerns for an increased risk of infection due to the bacteria in the water, this has not been supported by evidence.
On the other hand, studies show that water-birth babies are less likely to need immediate pediatric care.