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Women's experiences with water birth: A matched groups prospective study.
Anthony Lathrop1, Carrie F Bonsack1, David M Haas2
1HealthNet, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
Birth (Berkeley, Calif.)
|June 15, 2018
Summary
Water birth offers a more positive childbirth experience and is linked to fewer perineal tears and increased breastfeeding initiation. Adverse outcomes were rare in both water and conventional birth groups.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Perinatal Care
- Maternal Health
Background:
- Water birth is a growing childbirth option facing scrutiny regarding risks and benefits.
- Previous research has not fully elucidated the comparative maternal experience and outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare maternal childbirth experiences between water birth and conventional birth.
- To evaluate maternal and newborn outcomes associated with water birth versus conventional methods.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study comparing 66 water births with 132 conventional births.
- Matched groups for key confounding variables.
- Utilized the Childbirth Experience Questionnaire (CEQ) for experience assessment.
Main Results:
- Water birth group reported significantly more positive childbirth experiences (P < .001).
- Water birth associated with reduced perineal lacerations needing repair (P = .001) and higher breastfeeding initiation rates (P < .001).
- Adverse outcomes were infrequent across both groups.
Conclusions:
- Water birth is linked to enhanced maternal satisfaction and improved childbirth experiences.
- Water birth is a safe option with rare adverse events, comparable to conventional methods.