When a birth parent begins thinking about their delivery options, they must choose the path that suits their mental, emotional, and physical capabilities. With what seems like an endless list of possibilities and outcomes, birth parents often get confused about making a decision that suits their individual needs best. We explore water birth vs. traditional delivery to help you understand the differences and decide which is better for you.

It's essential to note that the birth plan you create and execute is specific to your body and your baby, and no delivery method is better than the other unless it's the safest plan.

A Look at Water Birth

Water birth popularity is rapidly growing. More and more people choose this birth plan because it allows more space for maternal control and more time to trust the female body. A common misconception about water birth is that it might be more painful or ineffective. However, a primary objective for water births is the water's effects on the body and how beneficial this can be at relaxing the birth parent, helping them navigate contractions, and allowing them to take their time.

Birth parents are often accompanied by a doula, midwife, or overseeing birth center staff, depending on the birth location, and these trained and educated individuals assist and support the delivery parent. Once the baby is born, trained professionals will tend to the mother and baby for proper assessments and begin working toward Golden Hour.

Traditional Delivery Approach

In a traditional delivery approach, birth parents feel safely supported by their overseeing care facility and providers, whether at a center or hospital. In these settings, individuals have intimate access to pharmaceutical support aids to encourage or support their labor and delivery wishes. However, even if the plan is to deliver vaginally, it's essential to note that care providers may suggest or urge a cesarean, depending on the progress or lack thereof.

Traditional delivery approaches serve expecting families best when they know without a shadow of a doubt that they need comprehensive medical support. For example, high-risk pregnancies, women placed on bed rest, or preterm rupture of membranes may require traditional delivery approaches with variable outcomes.

Which Is Better?

So, which is better, water birth or traditional delivery? It's critical to understand that all birthing options are valid. When it comes to knowing which is better and which may serve you best, spend time deliberating with your overseeing care staff and immediate family and going with what feels right.

A few circumstances may disqualify you from a water birth, just like a traditional medical approach might not interest you. Begin the conversation pre-conception, if possible, so that you can surround yourself with like-minded individuals. And start the deliberations with your care team soon after confirming your pregnancy.

Cascade Health Care services all medical professionals and supports all birth plans created and executed. We value the health and well-being of every family member and offer a comprehensive inventory of items to support this effort. Professionals can shop our selection of traditional or waterproof dopplers to provide each patient with a wide range of care. Browse our selection today to get started!