Birthing pool
A birthing pool is much like a large, warm bath, where a woman in labour can have her baby, if she has an uncomplicated pregnancy. A perception of relaxation, pain relief, ease of movement and a more holistic experience make water birth a popular choice.
There are perceived benefits of using immersion in water during labour, including less painful contractions, reduced need for pain control and a shorter labour. Clinical evidence does not support these perceived benefits, however.
There are some very rare risks for a baby born under water, including respiratory problems (including the possibility of drowning), umbilical cord rupture with severe bleeding and waterborne infections.
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