An increasing number of women are choosing to spend at least some of their labour immersed in water. For some, this means a few hours in the bath at the start of their labour, and for others it means delivering their babies in a birthing pool. Birthing pools are now a common sight in birthing centres in the UK, and some women even choose to hire birthing pools for use at home. Water births are less common in the US, though many women still choose this option when planning a home birth.

If you are currently writing your birth plan, you may be considering water birth as an option. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages or water births:

The advantages:

• The warm water can provide relief from the discomfort of labour, and may even be used instead of medical pain relief
• It doesn’t prevent the use of other medicines, you would still be able to use certain forms of pain relief in the pool. Speak to your healthcare provider to find out more
• The water can have a calming effect, allowing you to relax during labour which can help labour to progress
• The water can support your weight, meaning you may find yourself free from the aches and pains of late pregnancy
• The water can support your weight, leaving you better able to change position and stay upright
• The pool around you can help you to feel more private and protected. Your healthcare provider will still be able to reach you if needed, though the barrier may help you to feel more in control during labour
• The calming effect of the warm water can help to lower blood pressure
• Giving birth in water is thought to reduce the risk of vaginal tearing

The disadvantages:

• There are some forms of pain relief that are not compatible with the pool, so you may need to abandon the birthing pool if you want to have one of those pain relief options
• If you get into the pool before labour is underway, there are concerns that you could slow down the onset of labour
• Birthing pools are not available in all birthing units, you will need to check with your healthcare provider whether you will be able to have one on the day
• If you are planning a homebirth, you will need to hire a pool yourself which you will need to budget for
• Not all women experience the pain relieving benefits of water, some simply feel disappointed when they get into the pool

Are you considering a water birth?

Written by Fiona (@Fiona_Peacock), mother, writer and lover of all things baby related.

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2018. All rights reserved.

Touch is an important sensory experience for your baby. You’ve probably noticed your baby loves to be held, cuddled and stroked. Your baby loves to be close to you. Your baby feels reassured by the touch of your skin. Many parents are now turning to baby massage as a way of bonding with their babies. If you haven’t tried baby massage yet, here are five reasons why you should:

1. It’s great for bonding

Including baby massage as part of your daily routine provides another way to strengthen the beautiful bond you have with your child. As the two of you relax together in a quiet room, you can look into his eyes and help him to unwind after a busy day. The massage itself encourages the release of oxytocin, the love hormone responsible for bonding, which allows both of you to relax and enjoy this special time together. It also guarantees you a little bit of time for the two of you to escape the chaos of everyday life and spend some time focused on each other.

2. It aids development

Baby massage stimulates your baby’s respiratory system, immune system and nervous system. Baby massage is a sensory experience, allowing your baby to learn more about his body in a safe and relaxing environment. It allows for eye contact and touch, enhancing your baby’s social development as well as strengthening your bond.

3. It’s good for sleep

If you’re trying to gently nudge your baby into more of a routine, baby massage can help. Many parents enjoy a quiet hour with their baby before bedtime. Bath and stories are popular bedtime activities, but baby massage is another great one to include. Turn down the lights, cut out background noise and spend some time helping your baby to relax before bed. The massage will help your baby calm down before bed.

4. It’s relaxing

Baby massage is great for helping babies to relax, but it can work wonders for your stress levels too. After a busy day spent tending to the needs of your baby, you might benefit from some relaxation time as well. Tuck yourself away from visitors, the television, and your phone, and enjoy fifteen minutes of quiet, focused time with your baby.

5. It can build confidence

Being a parent can be pretty overwhelming. There are so many decisions to be made on a daily basis, and sometimes you may worry you’re not qualified to make them. The more time you spend with your baby, the more your confidence will grow. Baby massage will help you to realize that you know how to soothe and calm your baby. As your bond strengthens, so too will your confidence.

How can I learn more about baby massage?

It’s advisable to attend an official baby massage class before you start. In infants, massage is done on the surface, with very little pressure and slow, gentle strokes. There are baby massage classes all over the country. Find out whether there is a class in your local area where you can find out more, learn the technique and meet other moms.

Have you tried baby massage with your baby?

Written by Fiona (@Fiona_Peacock), mother, writer and lover of all things baby related.

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.