Wexford Maternity Unit celebrates significant 100th waterbirth milestone

The 100th waterbirth at Wexford Maternity Unit was marked by staff and proud parents, Andrea and Barry Kehoe, from Bunclody, Co. Wexford after they welcomed their second daughter, baby girl Phoebe at Wexford General Hospital on Wednesday, 15 October 2025 last.

Midwife, Rebecca Roche, one of the maternity unit’s dedicated Pool Champion Midwives supported mum Andrea through the birth and was delighted along with the wider maternity team about reaching this milestone.

This 100th waterbirth marks not only a celebration of baby Phoebe Kehoe’s arrival[MO1] , it’s also a testament to the ongoing commitment and dedication of Wexford’s maternity team to provide safe, compassionate, innovative care for women and families throughout the county.

Since introducing waterbirth and hydrotherapy services in December 2020, Wexford Maternity Unit has been at the forefront of providing women with evidence-based, natural options for labour and birth. The use of water in labour is well researched and has been shown to offer effective pain relief, support relaxation, and create a calmer transition for newborns, with fewer medical interventions required.

Waterbirths and hydrotherapy at Wexford Maternity Unit

Out of the 19 maternity units in the Republic of Ireland, 12 units provide a pool for hydrotherapy and Wexford is one of 7 that also provides waterbirths. The staff at Wexford Maternity Unit are proud to offer this midwifery-led service and encourage all expectant mothers to speak with their Midwife or Doctor about whether hydrotherapy or waterbirth may be suitable for them.

Last year, additional funding was secured to further develop this service by Advanced Midwife Practitioner (AMP) Orla Mongan to set up a Home From Home birthing room within the maternity unit. The upgraded facility now provides a tranquil and supportive environment for families choosing waterbirth, enhancing the overall birth experience.

Meanwhile, the midwives in WGH would also like to thank ‘Water babies Ireland’ who kindly donated a voucher to the value of €220 to give to the mother and baby to celebrate this 100th milestone.