Use of birth pool in labour and birth.

The use of water during labour as a natural and therapeutic approach has a long history that stretches back centuries. Water has been used for its pain-relieving properties, making it ideal for women during labour and birth.

Michel Odent, a French obstetrician has contributed significantly to the study of water use in labour and birth.

The practice of immersing labouring women in water, also known as waterbirths, can be traced back through history, various societies, including the Ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans, recognized the benefits of water during birth. The soothing sensation and buoyancy provided by water were thought to facilitate easier labour and enhance relaxation.

However, it was not until the 20th century that water birth gained significant attention and understanding, thanks in part to the pioneering work of Michel Odent. Odent, a proponent of natural birth and a strong advocate for women-centered care, introduced the concept of water birth as a modern-day birthing option.

His work aimed to challenge the prevailing medicalized approach to childbirth and provide women with a gentler and more empowering experience.

Odent's studies and observations began in the 1970s when he noticed that laboring women in water seemed to experience less pain and stress. He observed that immersion in warm water not only encouraged relaxation and decreased the need for pain relief medications but also promoted better progress in labor. By reducing the force of gravity and providing a weightless environment, water supported the woman's body and allowed her to move freely, facilitating optimal positioning for the baby.

Through his research, Odent discovered that birthing in water had numerous physiological advantages. The immersion in warm water helped to increase blood flow and ease muscle tension, resulting in reduced pain and increased oxytocin production. This hormone is crucial for effective contractions and bonding between mother and baby. The buoyancy of water also decreased pressure on the pelvic floor muscles, reducing the likelihood of tear or episiotomy.

As Michel Odent continued to study water birth, he found that not only did laboring in water benefit the birthing mother, but it also assisted in providing a smooth transition for the baby from the womb to the outside world. The warm water provided a familiar, gentle environment for the baby, mimicking the amniotic fluid and helping to reduce stress during the birthing process.

Pain Relief: Immersion in water, such as taking a shower or using a birthing pool, can alleviate labor pains and provide a soothing sensation.

Relaxation: The calming nature of water facilitates relaxation, reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of calmness during labor.

Buoyancy: Being in water allows the mother to experience buoyancy, which reduces the pressure on her joints and muscles, enabling her to move more freely and comfortably during contractions.

Lower Blood Pressure: Water immersion has been known to promote lower blood pressure, a contributing factor in maintaining a healthy blood flow during labor.

Temperature Regulation: Water helps regulate body temperature, preventing overheating or becoming too cold during labor.

Natural Progression: Utilizing water during labor has been associated with a positive impact on the progress of childbirth, sometimes leading to shorter labor durations.

Improved Circulation: Water immersion can enhance blood circulation, potentially reducing the risk of complications and promoting optimal fetal oxygenation.

Psychological Support: Water usage in labor can provide a sense of empowerment and control for the mother, boosting her confidence and reducing stress levels.

The use of water in labour has some wonderful benefits but something to consider is that if utilised to early or for to long it has been known to slow down labour.

Water temperature also has to be at the right level which may be hard to achieve with some home hot water services.

If you are on tank or bore water you may need to consider if your water will need to be filtered for use in the pool to ensure the water is uncontaminated.

Before using a pool or water immersion please consult with your medical provider to see if it would be suitable.

For more information on water immersion in labour and birth please see Michel Odent’s books-

Water, Birth, and Sexuality

Planet Ocean