A Review of Water Birth/ Birth Centers

Abstract

Water birth aligns with the principles of physiological childbirth and woman centered care promoted in midwifery practice. It emphasizes the importance of providing a supportive and comfortable environment for labor, facilitating relaxation and promoting minimal intervention during childbirth. It is considered an alternative birthing option that offers several potential benefits for laboring women and their babies. Studies have suggested that waterbirth is associated with lower rates of medical interventions such as epidural anesthesia, episiotomies and operative vaginal deliveries. Women who choose waterbirth often experience shorter labors and fewer complications compared to those birthing on land.