Delivering a child is a true miracle. It can also be a wonderful experience if you are able to plan and achieve the birth of your child in a customized manner. Even though it is not as common as a traditional birthing experience, water births are becoming more and more common. This experience allows you to manage pain naturally while going through the labor process inside a tub of water. From less pain and stress to a decreased risk of vaginal tearing and a more peaceful experience for the baby, the benefits of water births should be easy to see. Unfortunately, you may believe a few common myths associated with this unique birthing experience. By debunking these common myths, you will learn the truth about water births, which can help you decide if this option is right for you and your baby.

Your Home Is Not Equipped

First and foremost, you need to understand that each person's water birth can be different from others. If you feel it is not the right option for you because your home is not equipped with a large tub, do not worry because there are solutions available.

You may be surprised to learn that portable tubs or small pools can be brought into your home if you prefer to deliver among your own personal items. On the other hand, if you prefer to deliver in a different setting, that is also an option you can consider.

Many hospitals are now offering birthing facilities that have larger tubs to help in the labor process. These hospital tubs are sterilized and ready for women who want to go through the labor process in water and then deliver in a traditional hospital bed. Or, you can choose to labor and deliver in the actual tub.

If you want to have a water birth at home, your home does not have to be equipped with a tub or medical equipment because these items can be brought in. If you prefer to deliver in a hospital, locate a local hospital that offers innovative birthing centers equipped with water tubs.

Water Births Are Expensive

There are many expenses associated with labor and delivery in a hospital setting. Not only will you and your insurance company be charged with the actual room cost for staying in the hospital, but you will also have to pay your obstetrician and anesthesiologist if pain medications are administered. If there are complications during the delivery or you require a c-section, there will be even more expenses.

Opting for a water birth at home will cost a great deal less. Of course, determining the exact cost will depend on your specific wants and needs, and you should also consider that most insurance companies do not cover home births.

On average, you can expect to pay $1,500 to $3,000 for the services of a midwife, which is a medical professional specifically trained in pregnancy and natural birthing experiences. Even though you will need to pay for a midwife, you will not need to pay high doctor and hospital fees. Since the water is used for pain management during labor, you will also save money on medications.

The Baby Can Drown

One of the most common myths associated with water births is that the baby will inhale water, become ill, or even drown during a water birth. Fortunately, this is also a myth that should be addressed, since so many women have this fear.

The placenta serves as the baby's breathing system, filtering fluid and other elements from the respiratory system to ensure they breathe in the healthiest and most effective manner. The placenta is actually still attached to your baby through the umbilical cord. Therefore, your baby will still have the placenta breathing capability and filtration during delivery.

Immediately after the delivery, your baby's umbilical cord will be cut and they will cry, beginning to breathe on their own.

Water births may not be the most common delivery option today, but they can be a smart option for you and your baby. Understanding the truths behind these common myths will help you decide what type of birthing experience is right for you.