Women’s Perspectives and Experiences of Water Birth in Erbil City: A Qualitative Study

Fatemeh Jahanshah Hassani; Tiran  Jamil Piro

doi:10.15218/ejnm.2026.06

Authors

Fatemeh Jahanshah Hassani Department of Midwifery, College of Nursing, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
Tiran Jamil Piro Department of Midwifery, Polytechnic University, Medical Technical Institute, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15218/ejnm.2026.06

Keywords:

Women’s perspective, Water birth, Maternal health

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Water birth is a pain-reducing and comfort-enhancing way of childbirth for women. Despite its origins in ancient methods, it has lately achieved global prominence, notably in midwifery-led care. However, acceptability and impression vary by area. This study aimed to explore women’s perspectives and experiences regarding water birth in Erbil City.

Methods: A qualitative study was conducted at Private Hospital Shar in Erbil, Iraq, from January to February 2025. Semi-structured video call interviews were conducted with seven Kurdish-speaking mothers who had given birth using water. A purposive sampling strategy was employed, and data saturation was obtained. The interviews were transcribed, translated from Kurdish to English, and evaluated using content analysis. The study's rigor was maintained by ensuring its credibility, reliability, and confirmability.

Result: Psychological effects, cultural perspectives, and overall experience were the three major themes that emerged from the investigation. Pain relief, a sense of peace, and stress management were among the psychological effects. Cultural perspectives reflected the community's beliefs and norms. The overall experience included emotional relief, barriers and challenges, and willingness to recommend water birth to others. The participants' experiences may be fully understood by researching these themes.

Conclusion: Water birth was associated with reduced pain and improved psychological comfort. Despite cultural concerns and practical challenges, participants reported positive experiences and a willingness to repeat water birth. This study emphasizes informed choice, partner support, and adequate facility protocols to ensure safe implementation across diverse settings.

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