“I was going into labor, and my goal was to do it as naturally as possible.”
First-time mother Karinda Maat used the hydrotherapy tub at Holland Hospital’s Boven Birth Center while in labor with her baby, Wesley.
The tub is designed to allow full-body immersion that reduces pain and lets mothers adjust positions for labor.
“I mean, it didn't take away the pain, Contractions were still painful. I still felt them, but I think the biggest thing is it gives more of a relaxing and a little bit less of a medical feel because you're sitting in this big tub, almost like a Jacuzzi.”
Studies suggest warm water soothes labor contractions, promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety, says Project Coordinator Becky Shanahan, adding many mothers find it reduces their need for medication.
“It's a greater comfort and freedom of movement. You know it kind of takes that gravity away. It helps enhance mobility, so the baby can descend more effectively. It takes the pressure off that they have been feeling, and it potentially can lead to a shorter labor for some women.”
Holland Hospital does not offer water births; the hydrotherapy tub is specifically for labor and is available to mothers experiencing low-risk pregnancies with approval of their healthcare providers.
Shanahan says hydrotherapy is another option in the birth center’s effort to support a mother’s individual birthing preferences.
