water birth
hi all just a bit of advice really from those who know!! has anyone had a water birth or used the pool when in labour? i really like the thought of water as i have heard lots of positive feedback about it on tv mags etc and wondered if anyone on here has any experience?:\?
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I too am thinking about a waterbirth (first baby due 30 May). I have watched a few water births on tv which I am sure don't prepare you for the real thing ! But they did look more relaxing.
I have decided to opt for a water birth with gas & air. I don't care about the dignity aspect and will be stripping off for maximum comfort !
I think if you wanted to have pethedine as an option if the pain was too much you may need to put in your birth plan. I have a feeling you would have to get out of the pool at a certain time to have this ??! Ask your midwife's advice.
I just think of all the positions I could be in, in a pool. I think it will be less restrictive when you want to rock or be on all fours etc.
Not sure how long you have left but all the best
Vicsta
Dear Tess,
We have 3 pools at King's plus a large bath which can be used for labour, as well as baths in some of the en suite bath rooms. We would positively encourage you to use water in labour, if you wish.
Obviously it is not absolutely possible to guarantee that a pool will be available when you are in labour, but it is unlikely that you won't be able to have access to any of the pools, unless when you are in labour it happens to be an unusually busy time. Even then we can try to move women from one room to another, if there is a woman in a room with a pool but not actually using the pool.
We hold a monthly waterbirth talk on the first Tuesday of the month at 6.30pm. You do not need to book: just come along to the Labour ward (Nightingale Birth Centre) reception on the 4th floor of the Golden Jubilee Wing. We show you what the built- in pool looks like (unless it is being used). We will also have a talk about using the pools and answer questions.
The next talk will be on Tuesday April 3rd.
Best wishes.
GR8 INIT?!!!!
I actually cant wait now, hehe*