Benefits of Tubs During Labor
Mothers Find Pain Relief With Water Immersion During Childbirth
Jun 3, 2009
If you are looking for ways to reduce labor pain, one of the most effective tools may be right in your own bathroom! Getting into a tub during labor is often one of the most beneficial ways to find pain relief. Find out how water immersion can help you during labor.
Water Immersion Reduces Back Pain
If the mother gets into a tub during her labor, the weight of the baby is lifted off of her back by the buoyancy of the water. Laboring mothers find that, not only is their contraction pain lessened, but so is their back pain. Adding helpful positions in the tub such as hands and knees, can further reduce the discomfort of back pain and even help to turn a posterior baby.
Water Immersion Aids Relaxation
The soothing effects of water during labor is often compared to the relaxation of getting a narcotic, without the unwanted side effects of medication. Rather than responding to contractions with tension, mothers find that water provides a deep sense of relaxation that can will help them conserve energy. Another benefit is that the more relaxed her body is, the more effectively her uterus can work to dilate her cervix and help her baby descend. In some cases when the mother stays more relaxed, getting into a tub may actually speed up the course of labor!.
Water Immersion Lessens Need for Epidurals
Immersing in a tub during labor is often so effective that research shows that fewer mothers asked for epidurals. If mothers choose to labor without an epidural or cannot have one for a variety of reasons, laboring in a tub is likely going to be a great alternative. Find out if your place of birth has a tub that your can use during labor.
Guidelines for Using a Tub During Labor
In order to use a tub safely, here are a few important guidelines to follow:
- Keep the water at no warmer than body temperature (about 98-99 degrees F).
- Do not get into a tub if your water has broken unless you have approval from your care provider.
- Save the tub for active labor, since water immersion in early labor can prolong labor.
- Get out of the tub after about 90 minutes of continuous usage.
- Talk to your provider prior to labor if you are interested in giving birth in the tub (called waterbirth), since not all providers are familiar with this method.
- Deeper tubs that are made for laboring in are the most effective. These tubs can often be rented for use at home or at your place of birth.
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