Water births now made easy with the new water-birth mirror

Mothers-to-be often fear the prospect of giving birth. While there are various methods to give birth, water births are currently an increasing trend amongst most women. The entire process involves giv

By: Pavitra Sampath | | Published: June 8, 2014 1:56 pm

Mothers-to-be often fear the prospect of giving birth. While there are various methods to give birth, water births are currently an increasing trend amongst most women. The entire process involves giving birth in water guided by a mid wife in the comfort of your home or a birthing centre. Also Read - Are water births safe and less painful?

A water birth allows your baby to enter the world in water, helping avoid the sudden shock a baby feels when he/she enters the world. Moreover, water has a relaxing effect on our body which makes it the element of choice for creating settings that enhance the birthing experience. Also Read - Pregnancy week-by-week guide -- what to expect during the entire 40 weeks

But there are some down sides to this process. During a water-birth a midwife has to lean over the edge of the pool and place a mirror under a labouring mother to see when the baby crowns. She also might sometimes need to shine a torch from the top to be able to see better. Also Read - Yoga during pregnancy: How is it beneficial?

That can be quite a difficult experience for a woman. Well, that might not be necessary any more. Scientists at Loughborough University in Britain have invented an illuminated, adjustable mirror that can be used under water when a baby is being born. Experts say that giving birth in a water pool is an effective form of pain relief and helps many women feel in control during labour. ‘We hope the device will help the midwives carry out their work in more comfortable conditions, and for future mothers-to-be to benefit from this device that allows them to experience a more dignifying labour,’ said Carmen Torres, senior lecturer at Loughborough’s school of mechanical and manufacturing engineering. The mirror, which has lights around its frame, is mounted securely on a flexible pole. Its design makes it easier for midwives to see when a baby’s head crowns. The new device could make having a water birth more pleasant and dignified for women, a university press release said.

Benefits if a water birth:

All these benefits are of great use at the time of labour and birth. The soothing caress of warm water relaxes the mother. The effect of buoyancy helps the mother to change positions with little effort. If the pool is big enough, her husband or birthing companion can join her to provide comfort and support.

The benefits of water birth are not limited to the mother only. Water is the first element the baby gets familiar with. A familiar environment like warm water provides for a smooth, soft landing which overcomes the shock of gravity.

A mother choosing a water birth should choose a labour support professional or medical practitioner who is experienced in water birthing.

With inputs from: IANS

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Published : June 8, 2014 1:56 pm

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