high risk and a water birth?

[MrsCK]

I am high risk not due to complications in my pregnancy but due to a pre existing medical condition. I really want a water birth. is there any way at all this is going to be possible? I'm so tempted to get one at home so I can spend at least some of labour in there or just go for a home birth...although not sure I'll be allowed this either! I just don't like not having a choice over this. I know it may not go to plan anyway but I'd like the option to choose.

I found that asking to speak to the Head of Midwifery meant that she was able to explain the risks, assure herself that I understood them, and then sign off my birth plan (which said what I had planned all along). The HoM's name should be on the hospital's website, can you email her?

I agree - I've gone the same thing as I have gestational diabetes and have been classed as high risk. The consultant midwife was really helpful and agreed to everything on my birth preferences. It's definitely worth a shot.

I think chatting to the Supervisor of Midwives is the best first step.

Firstly, are they saying that you can't have a water birth or is this just a concern of yours because you are high risk? They might not have a blanket rule against it.

Secondly, why do they say they don't want a water birth? It really depends on why you are high risk and then the risks associated with that in terms of making the birth plan. It may be that it really isn't a good idea because of X and Y (so it is important that they explain their concerns rather than just have a blanket rule), or it may be that (as with mcfox) the risks can be managed in such a way to allow a water birth.

Thanks for your responses. I'll email the HoM!