Water births/ birth experiences

[CuppaTeaTeddy]

The midwife came round to visit today to start talking about labour. I haven't got long left to go. I quite like the sound of having a water birth. I know I can change my mind at any point for what I actually want.

What are people's experiences with this? I know everyone is different but just want some advice because I have no idea about anything.

I got in the pool at 5cm dilated, I stayed in there for part of the pushing stage, but I was feeling hot and bothered and they couldn't make the water cooler. I decided to get out before the next contraction and urge to push, I was happier leaning over a giant bean bag on all fours with a fan on me. I didn't feel that the water relieved pain, but it was nice to float around in between contractions, I used hypnobirthing too which was great for keeping me calm :)

I had a water birth with my first child, I loved it (well, as much as you CAN love childbirth!). I do feel like it eased my pain slightly and it was fun being in the pool in the beginning stages before the pain really took over.

I had two water births, they were great, I can't imagine giving birth out of water. I found it really helped the pain, my mum poured water on my back with each contraction, it helped incredibly. Both times my babies were born completely chilled and conveniently cleaned of any birth muck.
It helped me stay comfortable in an optimum position for birth (all fours), but I much preferred the inflatable pool from my second birth, which was at home, to the hospital pool. It was much comfier on my knees.

I had one with my first and am hoping to with my second (currently 30 weeks) It was lovely!! I hopped in at 5cm and it was so relaxing and really helped soothe the contractions. DD was born after 5 or 6 contractions in the pool... hoping baby number 2 will be as quick!

#1 I laboured at home in water. Had to get out during a long second stage to see if we could find a better position. Ended up transferring to hospital for ventouse.

#2 We just got the pool filled in time after a very fast labour (at home again). Baby born about 15 mins later with my husband only just having got the water to temperature. 14 minute second stage and I caught her delivered under the water. Best experience of my life.

Oh - meant to say - it was brilliant pain relief for me, especially with G&A too.

I was in the pool with dc1 until final moments. I found it much mor relaxing. Midwives sat back a bit and gave you space and water definitely helped with pain relief. I am opting for another try at water birth with dc2.
Just one warning be prepared to sit/lie in your own poo! Although midwives where quick to scoop as much out! But loved the experience

I was in the pool for a while with my first and loved it. I love being in the water so always wanted a water birth. However, the problem was they put me in the pool too early and it really slowed down my labour so I had to eventually get out and I ended up giving birth in bed.

So I'd definitely recommend it, but wait until you're in established labour as you'll feel most benefit from it when you're in most pain/further along.