“What if I poop in the water?”

As a doula, I hear this question all the time, and I love when it’s asked, because it means you're already imagining yourself birthing powerfully, in water, with your body doing exactly what it needs to do.

So let me answer it simply: yes, you might poop during a waterbirth - and it’s totally normal, healthy, and not dangerous for your baby.

Why does it happen?

During the pushing stage, your baby’s head moves down through your pelvis and presses on your rectum. This natural pressure can release stool; just like it’s meant to! It’s actually a great sign that your body is progressing.

But is it risky for the baby?

No. In healthy, well-managed waterbirths, there’s no evidence of increased risk for your baby from a small amount of stool in the water. Midwives and birth teams are prepared. They’ll quietly use a fine mesh scoop to remove any stool from the water without disturbing your focus. The pool stays clean, safe, and warm.

Large studies back this up. A 2018 Cochrane Review of 15 randomized trials (over 3,600 women) found that water immersion during labor reduces pain and epidural use, with no increase in infection, cesarean, or tearing risks (Cluett et al., 2018).

A separate meta-analysis of 287,000+ waterbirths found that neonatal infections, NICU admissions, and postpartum hemorrhage were actually lower in waterbirths than in land births (Taylor et al., 2022, Waterbirth International).

Even a UK-based cohort study of 60,000 births confirmed no greater risk of serious perineal tears or adverse outcomes, though there was a slightly higher rate of umbilical cord avulsion, which trained teams know how to manage (NIHR Evidence, 2022).

What if there’s meconium (baby poop)?

That’s a different kind of poop! If your baby passes meconium in the womb, your midwife may ask you to exit the pool for closer monitoring or to reduce inhalation risk; especially if the water becomes heavily stained. But again, this is rare, and your care team is trained to handle it calmly and safely.

What I tell my clients:

“Your body knows exactly what to do. If stool is part of the process, we’ll take care of it - no fuss, no shame. You stay focused on breathing and birthing. We’ve got you.” Waterbirth is about surrender, trust, and feeling supported. So if this question has been sitting in the back of your mind, I hope this answer helps you feel a little more informed - and a lot more free.