Water Birth The Natural Epidural

Warm water is sometimes called "the natural epidural" because of the comfort and relaxation it can provide during labor.

For many women, getting into warm water changes the entire feeling of labor. The buoyancy allows you to move more freely, takes pressure off your body, and creates a private, calming space where you can focus inward and work with your contractions.

Water can be especially helpful during longer labors, including first births and VBAC labors, but it can also provide tremendous comfort during a fast and intense labor.

And choosing water labor does not mean you have to give birth in the water. You can labor in the pool and get out to give birth, or, when circumstances remain appropriate, you may choose to welcome your baby in the water.

Why Women Love Laboring in Water

Natural Pain Relief

Warm water can provide significant comfort during contractions and may reduce the perception of labor pain. For many women, getting into the pool provides a noticeable sense of relief without medication.

Freedom to Move

Buoyancy makes it easier to change positions without having to support your full body weight. You can kneel, squat, lean, float, or reposition yourself according to what feels right as labor progresses.

Relaxation

Warm water can help relax tired muscles and reduce physical tension. Between contractions, many women are able to rest more deeply and conserve energy.

Privacy and Calm

The birth pool naturally creates a protected space around the laboring mother. Many women find that this helps them turn inward, decrease outside distractions, and remain focused on labor.

A Gentle Birth Environment

For families who choose water birth, the pool can provide a calm and intimate environment in which to welcome their baby.

Your Birth, Your Choice

Some women know from the beginning that they want a water birth. Others have no intention of getting into a birth pool until labor begins and suddenly decide that warm water sounds wonderful.

You do not have to decide in advance exactly how you will give birth.

Having a pool available simply gives you another option.

You may labor in the water and give birth outside of it. You may use the shower instead. You may get in and out of the pool several times. Or you may choose to give birth in the water when you and your baby remain appropriate candidates.

The goal is not to achieve a water birth.

The goal is to give you options for comfort, movement, relaxation, and an environment in which you feel safe and supported.