Would you recommend a water birth?

[crimblecrumbles]

I'm pregnant with DC2 and considering a hospital water birth this time but know nothing about them. Do they help with pain? What do you wear? Do you actually give birth in the pool? Are there any cons? TIA x

I tore in the same place as my previous birth but the experience was far less painful and my recovery much faster than from my first delivery (which was episiotomy and forceps).

I still got a 2nd degree tear and grazing so not sure it reduces that, but I didn't notice it happening!

I didn’t tear with either of my water births. First baby was 9lb 5!!

I got in the pool in very active labour and I found it so relaxing I fell asleep. I then had maybe 2 or 3 contractions over the next 90 minutes, then suddenly woke up with the urge to push and 15 minutes later had my baby.

I did get out to deliver - for some reason suddenly the pool felt wrong.

I wish I’d used a pool for my prior births. It was just wonderful.

@crimblecrumbles

Thank you ladies, so good to hear some insight. With my first I thought pools were hippy nonsense and wanted the full on hospital treatment 😂. Was pretty horrific so I'm quite excited to try something new and less clinical this time. A lot of you are saying you still tore? Or do you still think it helps? Xx

Dont want to jump on your post. Hope you dont mind me asking if you made a decision on what your going to do?

I am 38 weeks tomorrow and was with midwife yesterday who said about a water birth. I like the idea of it but wanted to read up on it.

@mrscotton I'm only 30 weeks so still got a while. But I think I have decided to have a go... if I don't like it I can just get out. The midwife led birthing unit at my chosen hospital is only a few doors down from the delivery suite so it should be relatively easy if I change my mind or need to go.

I still have my reservations... like I would prefer constant baby monitoring. but lying in a bed didn't work so well for me last time so I'm willing to try something different xx