Hi all,
I am due on 29th July and have just been diagnosed with Gestational Diabetes. I was hoping to have a waterbirth in the birth centre mainly for pain relief, but since this diagnosis I am up against a lot of resistance from the midwives. If I can control it by diet alone I may still be allowed into the birth centre but if not I will be on the Labour Ward. Has anyone else had a similar experience or know if there are baths on the Labour Ward as an option for pain relief. Any info would be greatly appreciated. xx

Hello

I know there were no birthing pools on labour ward when I was last there (2008!) but I seem to remember baths. You used to be able to have a look around on a kind of guided tour, they must still do that.

I know nothing about Gestational Diabetes but my experience taught me that if I really wanted something to happen in my birth then it was my body, my baby & I expected the midwives to support my decision. I was lucky enough to have a healthy pregnancy &, seemingly, healthy baby so was happy to push for what I wanted. A couple of doctors tried to change my mind on one major issue but I was lucky enough to have met some wonderful midwives who could give me clear, unbiased facts & who realised that each birth is totally different & that hospital procedures don't always fit each situation/pregnancy.

If you're labouring in the birthing centre & start to have difficulties the labour ward is right door so transfer is extremely quick.

Hope some of this helps! Good luck

Hi I gave birth on the 22 of june everything was fine while I was pregnant I gave birth in birth centre I wanted to have water birth I wrote a birth plan but none of my midwives were interested and when I ask for water birth they told me that they dont have experince in water birth so we cant use it. That was really annoying. But dont worry m sure u will be fine!

I am 23 weeks pregnant, and want a water birth at the birthing centre, so 'apple28' I am a bit miffed to hear your story!
I also wanted a "tour" but was told they dont do this any more - am contemplating transferring to St Helliers.
Any advice on this anyone?

Am a bit late, but yes, basically - transfer if you can. I've had two in Mayday and would not recommend it!