Underwater birth / Judith A. Lewis

Lewis remarks on Simpson's systematic review that determines potential risks or benefits to mother and baby of underwater birth, a phenomenon that gained popularity in France in the 1970s. After extensive study, the author concluded that the studies didn't have sufficient statistical power to adequately evaluate the risk of neonatal harm, although there were several anecdotal reports of neonatal morbidity. Hydrotherapy may have therapeutic effects during the first stage of labor, however, there's insufficient evidence to support its continuance through birth. Nurses should educate their patients that underwater birth hasn't proven to be safe for babies and to encourage educated decision making for safe birth outcomes.

Nursing