Seeking Advice on Birth Plan Options

[Hessa1997]

Hello Mums,

As I prepare to make my birth plan for my first little one, I find myself facing a bit of a pickle regarding the method of delivery. Scheduled for a vaginal birth, I'm considering the option of a water birth, but I'm a tad unsure about which route to take.

I'm reaching out to inquire about your experiences, particularly if any of you have tried a water birth. Was it less painful or more comfortable compared to a traditional birth on the bed?
As a first-time mum, I'm feeling quite anxious about the process and could use some guidance in making this decision.

Thank you all in advance for your support and advice.

caution - my friends opted for water birth but wasn’t able to have it when it came down to it as there wasn’t enough staff on that night to open the birth pool room

I've only had a water birth at home so can't compare the two, but I'm going water again for my second. Water has many benefits- pain relief, softens up the skin so reduces risk of tearing, supports your body. I loved it! Was an instant relief getting in. Super relaxing if you're the sort of person that likes a bath. Worth finding out how many pools are available if going into the hospital and generally what availability is like, but I know in my local one the pool is quite underused. No harm in planning for it, you can always decide against on the day.

I really wouldn’t get worried or anxious about the plan or making decisions ahead of time, no one has any idea how they’ll find it. Research all the options and think what you’d prefer, but don’t get too set on one exact plan.

This isn't helpful- yes this is always subject to availability but why not plan for what you ideally want? This is the whole point of creating a plan.

"Traditional birth on a bed" isn't the only option other than a water birth. There are lots of options to be upright and active and not necessarily lying down on a bed to give birth, which is not the optimum position in most cases.

I can't help otherwise, I planned a home water birth but had precipitous labours so we didn't have the time. I found standing or kneeling most comfortable throughout labour and the birth itself. I didn't lie down but it's the very last thing I wanted to do.

I really enjoyed being in the water during labour. Was very helpful pain wise. In the end things went a bit tits up and I was transferred to labour ward, but the water was great while it lasted! Number two due soon and I'll be aiming to get in to the pool again (and hopefully not need a transfer).

I laboured in the pool, but opted to get out to push. You don't need to plan everything, just be aware of what your options are and you can make a decision when the time comes depending on how you feel.

When I brought up birth plans with my obstetrician she said the plan was to deliver the baby safely with as little trauma to me and the baby as possible. Until the time none of us really understand what we are capable of or what sort of pain relief we would require. She recommended ante natal yoga, hypno-birthing and a tens machine. I took her advice and went through the entire labour no problem
at all. I then had a C-section due meconium in my waters.

First time mum here too and I am SO sick of being told not to bother with a birth plan because you wont get it. I'm not listening to naysayers anymore and am choosing to be a strong advocate for myself.

You have a higher chance of birthing pool if you are in a midwife led center, so it's worth looking for your nearest one. Also, if you have a home birth there is the option to rent of buy your own.

I agree it's so important to know your options, if you don't know your options you don't have any and choices will be made for you.

A plan can be flexible, language of birth preferences rather than birth plan is maybe more helpful.

Yes to all of this. The point of creating a plan is for you to think about the options available and to help your caregivers support you in this. If something doesn't go according to said plan it does not mean the process of creating it will have been without merit. You will have a stronger sense of what is important to you and more knowledge to make informed decisions if something goes off course. Water or not OP, your planning will be worth the effort.

As a 2nd time mum, birth imminent, have a birth preference over a plan! My plan 1st time was looked at and the lovely midwife tried to give me as much as she could from it!
How far along are you?
As your pregnancy progresses you will be advised on where is more sensible to give birth by your midwife! Hopefully that is a midwife lead unit with a pool!!
I am consultant lead and I will take medical advice willingly, there no point in even considering midwife lead as the health of myself and my baby comes 1st.
I still have preferences but maybe a more flexible and realistic approach this time round for me personally. Minimal examinations, using the toilet myself, active and upright positions, not being asked if I want pain relief.
I would say my number one tip would be have someone who will advocate for you, I was in active labour quickly 4 weeks early and unable to speak up for myself, my DH also scared and unwilling to speak up for me. Maybe if I had my mum she would have been the one to ask more questions!?
2nd time round I feel more prepared and DH also more confident to ask questions and speak up!
Good luck