Can Water Birth Prevent Tearing?

Can giving birth in water prevent perineal tearing?

You bet it can!

Warm water can help the perineum become more elastic & relaxed, reducing the incidence and severity of tearing.

But that’s not the only benefit…

• Warm water is relaxing & comforting

• Buoyancy in water lessens a mother’s body weight, allowing for freedom of movement & easy position changes

• Immersion in water often helps lower high blood pressure caused by anxiety

• Water reduces stress-related hormones, allowing the mother’s body to produce endorphins which serve as pain-inhibitors

• Water provides a greater sense of privacy, thereby reducing inhibitions, anxiety, & fears
  
  For a more complete list of benefits visit https://americanpregnancy.org and search “water birth”.