The Environment of Birth in its Social Context

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The Environment of Birth in its Social Context

Introduction

     In 1993, the UK’s Department of Health published a report that stated that birthing choices available to women should include that of labouring and/or giving birth under water. As a result of this initiative, more than three-quarters of NHS hospitals have installed birthing pools to provide this option for mother’s-to-be. However, medical opinion continues to be divided over safety issues concerning the well-being of the infant.

     Advocators of this method claim that labouring, and/or giving birth under water, is of tremendous benefit to both baby and mother in both reducing pain and creating a more natural, less traumatic, environment for the child. Other professionals declare that water birth is not without its problems and, due to a lack of clear evidence, still believe that there are potential risks involved for the child.

     This paper will be critically analysing the environment of water birth in its social context, taking into account the physiology, psychology and spirituality of childbirth. By first considering its historical aspects, the essay will then reflect on recent research that indicate the benefits of water birth for both the mother and the child, the beliefs and opinions of those who fear this approach, recent research and media reports, and finally a brief look at both psychological and spiritual considerations.