A water birth involves laboring, and sometimes delivering, in a tub or pool of warm water. This soothing environment offers significant comfort and buoyancy, helping to ease the intensity of contractions and promote relaxation. Deciding what to wear is a deeply personal choice that balances comfort, modesty, and practical needs. The right attire ensures unrestricted movement and allows the care team to monitor the situation easily. This guide explores the options available, focusing on practical considerations for a smooth water birth experience.
Deciding on Coverage Level
The initial choice is between wearing nothing or selecting minimal clothing for coverage. Being completely naked is often the most practical option, allowing for unrestricted movement and maximum comfort. Laboring without clothing also facilitates immediate skin-to-skin contact with the baby upon delivery, which is beneficial for regulating the newborn’s temperature and heart rate.
Many choose minimal clothing for personal modesty, especially if observers are present or if they plan to document the birth. Facility policies may also influence this decision, sometimes requiring a top to be worn initially. Discussing your preference with your care provider beforehand ensures your choice aligns with their procedures. The decision for coverage rests entirely with the birthing person and should prioritize their security and comfort.
Recommended Garments for Modesty
For those who prefer modesty, selecting the correct garment is important for safety and functionality in the water. The best options are pieces made from lightweight, synthetic materials like nylon or spandex, which are quick-drying and do not absorb excessive amounts of water. Dark colors are often preferred as they help conceal any potential fluids or staining that may occur during the birth.
A supportive, non-underwire sports bra or a simple bikini top is a common choice for upper body coverage. Tankini tops provide more torso coverage, but must be loose enough to be easily pushed up or removed for immediate skin-to-skin contact. Some may opt for a thin, lightweight sarong or wrap, provided it does not become cumbersome or heavy when saturated. Whatever is chosen must not impede the care team’s ability to monitor the baby or the birthing person’s physical state.
Items to Remove or Avoid
Certain items of clothing and accessories should be removed or avoided entirely before entering the birthing pool for safety and hygiene reasons. All jewelry, especially rings, bracelets, and necklaces, should be taken off, as they can interfere with monitoring equipment or become lost. Water immersion can also cause fingers to swell, making the removal of rings difficult later.
Heavy, loose-fitting clothing, such as long cotton t-shirts or thick nightgowns, should be avoided. Cotton readily absorbs water, causing the garment to become heavy and restrictive, inhibiting movement and potentially making it harder to exit the tub quickly. Similarly, clothing with tight elastic bands or restrictive waistlines can become uncomfortable or limit circulation once submerged. Heavy makeup or highly scented lotions and oils should also be avoided to prevent water contamination and protect the newborn’s sensitive skin and respiratory system.
Preparing for Exit and Recovery
Planning for the transition immediately out of the water is important. Upon leaving the warmth of the tub, the birthing person may experience a significant drop in body temperature, making warm items a high priority. A large, thick, and pre-warmed towel should be ready for immediate use to dry and warm the upper body.
A loose, warm robe or a comfortable, button-down gown should be immediately accessible for maintaining body heat and comfort. This layer can be easily worn over the skin-to-skin contact with the newborn. Slip-on footwear, such as flip-flops or slippers with non-slip soles, are advisable for walking back to the recovery area on wet flooring. Finally, a complete change of clean, dry, loose-fitting clothes should be packed for the postpartum period to ensure comfort and manage natural fluids.