UNDERWATER DELIVERY: A SAFE BIRTHING OPTION (EXPERIENCE SHARING FROM TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL)

Background: Womens experiences of using water for labour and birth are generally positive in terms of feeling relaxed, involved in decision-making and being more in control. The use of water as pain relief during labour has been found to be effective, resulting in less use of epidural/spinal for pain relief during labour. There is evidence to suggest that the length of the first stage may be reduced. Objective-To find out the maternal and fetal outcome following underwater delivery. Methodology-During the antenatal period, pregnant women were educated and provided information about various alternate birthing positions. A total of 180 low-risk pregnant women who opted for underwater delivery were provided with the option to give birth in a birthing tub. Fetal and maternal outcomes were evaluated over a span of 12-month, and a 5-point Likert scale was used to measure womens satisfaction with the birthing experience. Results-Among 180 mothers, 18% were primigravida and 82% were multigravida, Birth weight of the babies was below 2.5kg in 60% and above 2.5 kg in 40%babies. The average duration of the second stage was 32 minutes, average duration of third stage was 8 minutes. Birth asphyxia and third stage complications were not observed in any case. Episiotomy was not needed in any case. The incidence of 1st degree was 15% and 2nd degree perineal tear was 6.7%. Early initiation of breast feeding, delayed cord clamping and AMTSL could be implemented in all cases. Babies born under water did not suffer from any complications like aspiration, birth trauma, lower APGAR score, neonatal infections or increased morbidity or mortality. The average satisfaction score of women was 4.7 on 5-point Likert scale. Conclusion- Underwater delivery revealed advantages such as labor pain relief, reduced risk of Obstetric interventions, soothing environment and smooth transition for baby from the womb to outer world.