A baby born underwater faces significant risks, primarily the danger of drowning.
Understanding Waterbirth and Newborn Breathing
While babies spend nine months in amniotic fluid within the womb, their breathing mechanism is different than that of a child or adult. Fetal breathing movements occur but very little fluid is inhaled. The baby doesn't actually breathe in the same way they will once they are born until they are exposed to air.
Key Points about Babies and Water:
- In the womb: Babies receive oxygen through the umbilical cord, not by breathing fluid.
- After Birth: Once born, the baby's lungs must transition to breathing air.
Dangers of Underwater Birth
The primary danger of a baby being born underwater is that they will try to breathe water. Unlike in the womb where the baby is not actually breathing in the same way, outside the womb the baby's natural reflex is to inhale. This can lead to:
- Drowning: The baby can inhale water into their lungs, leading to drowning.
- Death: In the worst cases, drowning can be fatal. As the reference states, "Baby can drown or even die if born in the water".
Waterbirth and Immediate Care
During waterbirth, where delivery happens in water, steps are taken to ensure the baby doesn't inhale water. These include:
- Immediate Removal: The baby is brought to the surface immediately after delivery to allow them to begin breathing air.
- Careful Handling: Professionals trained in waterbirth techniques handle the baby to prevent water inhalation.
Summary Table
| Situation | Key Factor | Risk |
|---|---|---|
| In Utero | Fetal breathing movements, little actual fluid inhaled | None, oxygen from umbilical cord |
| Underwater Birth (without care) | Baby attempts to breathe | Drowning, Death |
| Waterbirth (with care) | Baby immediately brought to surface | Reduced Risk of drowning |
