Waterbirth is another safe, gentle birth choice available either at home, a birthing center and some hospitals. Waterbirths have been happening since at least the 1700s when scientists realized the value of hydrotherapy during labor and birth. Most women desire a waterbirth because it helps them get through the pain of labor and birth. Many mothers report no use of medications during a waterbirth and water births have also been known as the aquadural.

There are many advantages for a mother having a waterbirth. The first significant advantage is the relief the water provides is much safer than an epidural. Some studies show a reduction in labor time, though this is probably very individual to the birthing mother. Sitting in water does provide more mobility during labor so the laboring woman can position herself more comfortably and the water can allow a deeper relaxation which allows the appropriate hormones to kick in like they want to. The fluidity of the water can also help reduce tissue and perineal damage during a waterbirth, resulting in less inflammation from stitches. Read more…

Hospitals aren’t the only avenue of care for pregnant women. Homebirths and midwifery care appear to be taking their respective place in the spotlight again. For centuries, midwives were the primary caregivers for pregnant and laboring women. In some countries, midwives are still the normal medium of care; the countries who have midwives as primary caregivers, on average have lower infant and maternal mortality rates and there is less medical intervention used, even in high risk deliveries. Read more…