Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Waterbirth
Waterbirth
Infection
Unpleasant environment
Emergency situations
Baby starting to breathe under water
Neonatal hypothermia
Inaccurate blood loss estimation
Contraindications for water birth
Women with medical problems such as diabetes, heart
diseases, kidney diseases, chronic mental illness
Very high BP
Severe pre-eclampsia
Active herpes sore near vagina
Previous caesarean delivery
Induced labour
Contd..
Pethidine or similar drug taken during labour.
Breech position
Premature baby
Multiple pregnancy
Prolonged second stage
Preparations for a water birth
Midwife should discuss advantages and disadvantages
with mother
Woman ‘s vital signs and fetal heart rate should be
within normal limits
Use of a water proof Doppler is recommended to check
FHR
Water temperature monitored by a floating thermometer
Contd..
Maintain adequate hydration and leave the pool to
urinate at regular intervals
An alternative birth place should be set up near the pool
Contd..
Water temperature - 32 to 37 degrees C
Amount of water should not be so deep
Water quality – clean. Any blood clots,mucus,feces should
be removed
Tubs – should be big enough to sit in comfortably. It
should be cleaned with a non abrasive cleaner and use 10
% solution of bleach and rinse thoroughly
The birthing room – should be strong enough to support
the weight of the tub when its full
When is the ideal time to get in the
pool?
The optimal time is when the labour is established.
This is confirmed by the presence of regular strong
contractions as well as a cervical dilatation of at least
4 cm.
What to eat and drink?