Deciding on a Waterbirth

If you are considering a waterbirth, you are not alone. We estimate that in the United Kingdom, between 5% and 10% of births have used water at some stage during birthing. Yet of these estimated 62,000 pregnancies that use water during labour, only 10% will result in a baby being born in the pool itself.

While the benefits of using water during labour are well documented, still many women have been asked to leave their birthing pool before the birth itself. As a result, an increasing number of women decide to have their birth at home, in comfortable and familiar surroundings, using a birthing pool they have hired or bought.
As you plan your waterbirth, while many midwives and GPs are extremely positive about your choice, you still might come across resistance from your GP, community midwife or hospital maternity unit. Begin by considering where you want to give birth and plan for the birth that you want. We have provided some information here for special situations which may help. We are here to point you in the direction of resources to assist and support you in your choices. Contact us by phone or e-mail.