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The risks of underwater birth
Michael G Pinette1, Joseph Wax, Elizabeth Wilson
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maine Medical Center, Portland, ME 04102, USA. cartia@mmc.org
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
|May 29, 2004
Summary
Water birth may pose risks such as drowning and infection, though rates are unclear. This review highlights potential complications associated with water birth compared to land-based delivery.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Neonatal Health
- Public Health
Background:
- Water birth is an alternative birthing method gaining popularity.
- Potential risks and complications associated with water birth require thorough investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a comprehensive literature review on potential complications of water birth.
- To identify and summarize reported adverse events linked to water immersion during labor and delivery.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective literature review utilizing PubMed and Cochrane Database.
- Inclusion of articles specifically detailing complications associated with water birth.
Main Results:
- Seventy-four articles on water births were identified; 16 described associated complications.
- Potential complications include fresh water drowning, neonatal hyponatremia, infectious diseases, cord rupture, hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy, and death.
- No adequately controlled trials comparing underwater delivery to air delivery were found.
Conclusions:
- Water birth is associated with potential complications not typically seen in land-based births.
- The incidence rates of these complications are not well-defined but are presumed to be low.