LETO: Water Births 18 Years Later – Coming of Age More than 200 Water Births

22 September 2017

The first ever water birth in Greece took place in a specially designed pool within the LETO delivery room. That baby has now reached adulthood.

On the occasion of this birthday, LETO organized a two-day informational event in the Epameinondas Megapanos Lecture Theater on Friday September 22 and Saturday September 23. During the event, attendees participated in draws for unique gifts. There was also a special play area set up for children’s activities.

Mr Ioannis Mouzalas, Obstetrician/Gynecologist, noted, “Natural childbirth and water birth are common and scientifically recognized practices in most developed countries. In Greece, this happened for the first time at LETO. As part of the efforts to support natural childbirth, the Hospital created the necessary and suitable conditions for water births, with a specially designed pool within the delivery room. Note that more than 200 water births have taken place at LETO since 1999.”

Mr Leonidas Papadopoulos, LETO CEO and Obstetrician/Gynecologist, stated, “LETO, a member of HYGEIA Group, is the first maternity hospital in Greece to give women the option of a water birth. Meanwhile, it continues to offer the most ideal conditions to expectant mothers for a unique and safe experience for them and their babies. After completing 48 years in healthcare service provision to Greek women and families, LETO continues to update and improve its services. This is demonstrated by the new logo, which is perfectly in tune with the modern times.”

Info: LETO offers cutting-edge services, such as comprehensive breastfeeding department for support and advice; rooming-in, which provides the option of mother and newborn sharing the same room 24/7; and childbirth classes, where experienced midwives build relationships of trust with the parents and help them enjoy the whole pregnancy and childbirth process without any fears or concerns. LETO has introduced the revolutionary kangaroo care method in their NICU, which practices skin-to-skin contact between baby and parents, even for preterm babies or neonates being hospitalized in the Unit. Other services include yoga classes for expectant mothers and an acupuncture department, which helps expectant mothers handle painful conditions that develop or intensify during pregnancy.