Risks of a Water Birth
Although many hospitals and doctors still think of water birth as an alternative method of giving birth, an increasing number of facilities offer water birth as an option for pregnant women. However, there are some risks associated with water births to consider. As with any choice surrounding a pregnancy and delivery, check with your doctor to see what works best for your situation.-
Inhaling Water
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One risk to the newborn with a water birth is the possibility that they might inhale some of the water from the birthing pool. Although this rarely happens, it can occur in stressful births when problems arise with the oxygen supply through the umbilical cord. If the newborn does not get enough oxygen during the birthing process, they will take gasps as soon as they can to try to get some air. This risk can be minimized by quickly removing the infant from the water after birth, but problems with the umbilical cord can occur quickly and without warning. Aside from suffocating, infants inhaling water can also develop hyponatremia, which results from not having enough sodium in their blood.
Infection
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Although many water births occur in sterile environments and at birthing centers or hospitals, infection can still occur. Any infection that the mother could possibly have can be transmitted to the baby through the water. Also, meconium in the water during or after birth, if not dealt with quickly, can also cause infections in the baby.
Heat
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High water temperatures during pregnancy are a known risk to the baby. If the water in the birthing pool gets too hot, it might cause distress to the baby as well as possibly dehydrating the mother. To avoid any risks due to hot water, make sure that the mother drinks enough water and the birthing pool is kept at or under 97 degrees Fahrenheit.
Maternal Risks
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If the mother has any infection, such as herpes, this can transfer through the water to the baby. Another risk is that water could potentially enter the mother's bloodstream, especially if she has a high risk of bleeding. Water births can also be risky for mothers with toxemia, preeclampsia, preterm labor, a breeched baby or multiple babies.
Bleeding
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Bleeding during birth can be risky and difficult to control in a birthing tub. Bleeding originating from the mother creates a toxic environment for the baby.Also, bleeding caused by a breakage of the umbilical cord can create a situation in which the infant needs to have blood transfusions. Although this type of uncontrolled bleeding rarely occurs, it is still a risk to consider.
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