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.