Women in labor can use a variety of techniques to help alleviate the pain that occurs during childbirth. Some moms practice special breathing techniques to help them get through contractions; other moms walk, kneel on all fours, or rock on a large inflatable ball to ease the pain. In some cases, though, women may choose to labor and even deliver their babies underwater, such as in a bath or hot tub. This practice is controversial, however - and doctors from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) examined the evidence regarding the possible benefits and risks of underwater birth.
The doctors examined studies reporting possible benefits of underwater birth. One 1996 study of underwater births around the world found that women who gave birth underwater were less likely to need cesarean sections or forceps or vacuum deliveries and that they had a reduced need for pain medication. The same study also found no increased risk to the babies. In another study, underwater birth was associated with a lower rate of episiotomies and higher Apgar scores in infants. It's important to note, though, that the benefits found in some of these studies were based on statements from patients - not from data that could be verified by researchers.
On the other hand, the results of three studies involving 988 mothers found that underwater birth didn't affect pain relief, the way the baby was delivered, or the trauma to the perineum (the area between the vagina and anus, which may tear during childbirth). Also, in the last few years, there have been reports of problems associated with underwater birth. Babies born underwater may experience respiratory problems, infections, umbilical cord problems, seizures, fever, heart rate abnormalities, and near drowning. In one English study, women who labored in water tended to have less pain, but had a higher risk of babies who needed care in the neonatal intensive care unit after birth.
What This Means to You: Although there is some evidence suggesting that underwater birth could reduce pain in laboring moms, there's no benefit to babies - and serious health problems could result. There are many options for pregnant women who want to reduce pain during labor. Your best bet is to talk to your obstetrician about the safest and most effective ways to reduce pain without putting your baby at risk.
Source: Committee on Fetus and Newborn, 2004-2005, Daniel G. Batton, MD, FAAP; Lillian R. Blackmon, MD, FAAP; David H. Adamkin, MD, FAAP; Edward F. Bell, MD, FAAP; Susan Ellen Denson, MD, FAAP; William Allan Engle, MD, FAAP; Gilbert Ira Martin, MD, FAAP; Ann R. Stark, MD, FAAP; Keith J. Barrington, MD; Tonse N.K. Raju, MD, DCH, FAAP; Laura Riley, MD; Kay Marie Tomashek, MD, MPH, FAAP; Carol Wallman, MSN, RNC, NNP; Jim Couto, MA; Pediatrics, May 2005
Reviewed by: Steven Dowshen, MD
Date reviewed: June 2005
