MIA
Why water helps
Warm water supports your weight, helps you relax and lets you move freely. Many people find it eases pain.
Using a pool in labour is linked with less need for an epidural. Some people labour in the pool and get out to give birth.
What the research found
The UK POOL study looked at tens of thousands of births. For women with healthy, low-risk pregnancies, giving birth in water was not linked with more harm to babies.
It also did not find more serious tears for women who gave birth in water.
Who it suits
Water birth usually suits people with a healthy, low-risk pregnancy at term. Your midwife will tell you if it suits you.
It may not be advised if you have certain health conditions, need continuous monitoring, or have had certain drugs for pain.
How to plan for a pool
Ask early whether your birth place has pools and what happens if they are in use. Some people hire a pool for a home birth.
Your midwife will keep an eye on the water temperature and on your baby’s heartbeat with a waterproof device.
Doulas
Breathing for labour