The Birthing Center of Buffalo has been providing waterbirth since opening our doors in 2014, and is the only facility in Buffalo providing this option. Waterbirth is a choice we’re very happy to offer at the birthing center. Women can labor in the shower or in the tub. We can monitor the baby’s heart rate with waterproof equipment. About one third of our babies are born in the tub.
To keep waterbirth safe, the mom and baby must have healthy vital signs and steady labor progress. Some mothers plan on a waterbirth and end up getting out while they’re pushing—to find a more comfortable position. Others don’t plan on a waterbirth but get in during labor and find it so helpful that they decide to stay there!
Some healthcare providers are concerned about the risks of waterbirth. We pay attention to safety factors including the temperature and the level of the water, as well as disinfection of the tubs after births. The main concern is about baby’s breathing, which doesn’t start until the face comes out of the water. After that, we are careful not to submerge baby again!
We join the American Association of Birth Centers (AABC) and the American College of Nurse Midwives (ACNM) in the belief that waterbirth is a safe choice for many women planning childbirth. Our well-trained staff follow guidelines from ACNM and Waterbirth International so that the outcome is a safe waterbirth.
Photo Credits: Shawna & Co.