Water Birth

BirthPregnancy
Written By Mercedes Ruiz

Is It Safe? What Are the Benefits?

Are you thinking about having a water birth? You’re not alone! Many people are choosing to give birth in water because it can feel calm, gentle, and more natural.

In this post, we’ll explain:

  • What a water birth is

  • Why some people choose it

  • The benefits of water birth

  • If water birth is safe

  • How to rent a birth pool with us

 

What Is a Water Birth?

A water birth is when a person gives birth in a tub or pool of warm water. You can choose to labour in the water only, or to both labour and give birth in the water.

The warm water helps your body relax and can make labour feel more comfortable.

Some people use water birth at home, while others use it in a birth centre or hospital (if allowed).

Why Choose a Water Birth?

Many people say water birth helps them feel:

  • Calm

  • In control

  • Supported

  • Less tense

They like how natural and private it feels. The water also helps with movement, making it easier to find a good position during labour.

 

Benefits of Water Birth

Here are some of the biggest benefits of giving birth in water:

1. Less Pain

The warm water helps muscles relax and may lower pain during contractions. Some people say they didn’t need as much pain medication (or any at all!).

2. Shorter Labour

Some studies show that water can help the body labour more smoothly. Being relaxed can help things move along.

3. Fewer Interventions

Water birth may lead to fewer medical interventions, like forceps or vacuum delivery.

4. Gentle Birth for Baby

Being born in warm water can feel more gentle for the baby. It’s like moving from one warm, safe space (the womb) to another (the water).

5. Freedom to Move

In the water, it’s easier to move your body. You can shift positions, float, and find what feels best.

 

Is Water Birth Safe?

Yes — for most people, water birth is safe.

It’s important to:

  • Be low-risk (no serious pregnancy complications)

  • Have a trained provider present (like a midwife)

  • Use clean, warm water

  • Have a plan in case you need to move out of the water

Your care provider will help you decide if a water birth is right for you.

 

We Rent Birth Pools!

Thinking about a water birth? We can help!

At the Perinatal Wellness Centre, we offer birth pool rentals so you can create a calm, safe space in your own home.

What’s Included:

  • Birth pool for 4 weeks (2 weeks before your due date and up to 2 weeks after your due date)

  • Disposable Birth Pool Liner

  • Air Pump to inflate the pool

  • Submersible Water Pump to empty the pool

  • 2 Drinking water hoses (1 to fill up the pool and 1 to drain the pool)

  • Floating thermometer

  • Net to remove debris

  • 1 Tap adapter (for standard faucets)

  • Instructions & information on water birth and safety

Our pools are easy to set up and cleaned carefully after each use.

 

Want to Learn More?

Water birth isn’t for everyone — but if it’s something you’re curious about, we’d love to help you explore your options.

Whether you’re planning a water birth or just want to try labouring in water, we’re here to support you.

✨ Click here to book your birth pool rental or ask a question!

Mercedes Ruiz
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