Husband Gets Into Heated Argument With Wife Over Childbirth Options, Says He Would Never Forgive Her If She Has A Water Birth

One couple’s disagreement over childbirth has turned into a much bigger fight than they expected. A woman who hopes to get pregnant soon says her husband is firmly against her plan for a water birth, and he is not backing down. She, meanwhile, was left stunned by how strongly he reacted to something she sees as her own decision.

Now the argument has spilled beyond the bedroom, and the online reactions are not holding back.

This woman and her husband are at loggerheads over childbirth options for their future child. From the man's point of view, water birth is unacceptable!

Sharon McCutcheon (not the actual photo)

The woman is seeking clarification on whether she is being unreasonable in believing that the manner in which she delivers her child is entirely her decision.

soshnomore

Her husband believes that the more pain you go through during childbirth, the better your bond with your baby.

soshnomore

According to her husband, he would never forgive her if she opts for a water birth.

soshnomore

During an interview, Marley Hall, a midwife and author of "Midwife Marley’s Guide For Everyone: Pregnancy, Birth and the 4th," noted that having a baby in water has numerous advantages.

It may help to speed up labor (often because of the positioning of the mother) and relieve tension and pain, she stated.

You are able to move more easily in the water since your body is lighter. In addition, due to the delicate transition into the water, newborns tend to be calmer.

Marley pointed out research that found that water delivery may lower the risk of substantial (3rd and 4th degree) perineal tearing. Studies have also indicated a decrease in meconium (baby's first feces) in the amniotic fluid of mothers who undergo water births. It is even better knowing that the number of emergency cesarean sections is also reduced.

I have helped around 700 babies into the world, and a good portion of these have been via water birth.

Marley Hall believes that the husband's behavior in the Mumsnet article is most likely based on fear and a lack of knowledge on the subject.

His assumption that more pain equals better bonding is just not true at all.

She further explained that:

His comment about ‘normal birth on land’ working for many years fails to recognize that women are all different; they have different experiences, wants, and needs. Perhaps he has a genuine fear of water birth, but i...[truncated]

That only made the disagreement feel even bigger.

Reminds me of the fight where she chose mother-in-law over her best friend, at the baby shower.

Here's how others in the community reacted to the story:

Sarah Darcy Sweary wee me

"Why not include him in the bonding experience and wire him up to a device that demonstrates labor pains?"

Gail Holding-Leyland Christine Hayden

This user wants the woman to leave the relationship.

Lorraine Baker Solas Ni Bhlaith Lucy Victoria

Do you agree with this?

Jodie Cooper Danielle Walker

"He needs to not have children."

Gwen Yandle Gallen Lindsay Craig

"It's not his decision; it's yours."

Jannice Cooper Richie Boiee

"He has a lot of growing up to do."

Marie Anne Muscat

When debating with your partner over the best way to give birth, it is important that you come to a mutual agreement. There are many ways in which partners can disagree on childbearing matters, and there's no 'right' answer when it comes down to what will work for each couple.

However, if one person feels strongly about their preference for how they would like to have children, then perhaps try negotiating different options so you both feel comfortable before coming up with an ultimate decision together.

What do you think about the story? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Was she wrong to put her foot down?

Still dealing with betrayal over birthing plans? See why she questioned her best friend.