Waterbirth has grown in popularity with most maternity units providing birth pools but it might not be an option for everyone.
If you are planning to use a birth pool in labour, here’s some considerations to be aware of:
sometimes it isn’t an option because your labour is fast and there isn’t time
if there are any concerns about you or your baby, it probably won’t be an option as you might require more monitoring
some maternity units have strict policies about who can use a birth pool which means it may not be a simple option for a woman with a high BMI, a VBAC or mobility issues - it makes a difference to find out more about what options are available to you and if you can have an individualised plan with the maternity unit
a pool may not be available so ask about other options such as using a bath or a shower - and keep asking as your midwife may be able to move you if one becomes available
you might not like being in the pool, which is totally fine - if it’s not working for you, you can just get out. During labour, you can also use the pool as you need it so some women will get out, wander, pace, use the loo and then get back in again
it can be worth waiting until you have regular, strong contractions to get into the pool
being in the warm water can make you feel more relaxed and comfortable - it won’t remove the pain of powerful contractions but it can certainly help to take the edge off
being induced can reduce your options - if your labour begins with the pessary you may be able to use a birth pool but if you have an oxytocin drip to induce/speed up labour, it may not be an option
It’s also worth noting that being classed as high risk doesn’t automatically mean a birthing pool isn’t an option - it might just need more planning.
To read more about the benefits of using a birthing pool, along with tips to be aware of, you can access the Waterbirth Guide (password: member2023) and please do also leave your comments and questions below. To talk it through in more depth, you can book a consultation with me to focus on your birth preparation.