~    It eases the pain of labor. Studies have shown that only 10% of moms using water during labor request additional pain relievers.

    ~    It provides a very serene environment where relaxation is more easily attainable, even during labor.

    ~    It can aid in facilitating a slow labor.

    ~    Waterbirth aids in the relaxing of the pelvic floor and relieves anxiety, both allowing for a smoother transition period.

    ~    It often increases the blood circulation.

    ~    Studies have shown that women who labor in water have shorter labors.

    ~    Cervical dilation is more efficient in water. (2.5 cm per hour compared to 1.25 cm per hour for women not laboring in water.)

    ~    The descent of the baby is typically twice as fast in a waterbirth.

    ~    Mothers labeled “high-risk” due to high blood pressure show a dramatic reduction in blood pressure within minutes of immersion in the water.

    ~    The buoyancy effect that water offers to the laboring mother is a physical liberation. As a result of this, the laboring mom has the freedom to move around easily in the water and provides a much better opportunity for relaxing between contractions. This means there is less chance of becoming fatigued or exhausted during labor.

For Baby ~

    ~    The water acts as an “external womb” which allows for a less traumatic entry into    the world.

    ~     Because of the better blood circulation that mom receives while laboring in the     water, baby will have improved fetal oxygenation.

    ~     Maintaining an optimum water temperature of 86-96 degrees F helps to regulate the fetal heart rate.

    ~    Water decreases the risk of sensory shock to the newborn as they are welcomed into the world in an environment that in many ways mirrors the mother’s womb.

"Loved the tub with jets! Tub was in good condition, friendly service.

It made my birth experience marvelous."

~The McCoy Clan