If so, was it a positive experience for you? I'm considering this for when I have my next child, since having epidurals affected me so badly. I don't think I could just go straight up natural, I'd need the kind of help a warm bath could provide!

I almost got to labor in the tub last time, but the tub installation wasn't complete in time. I did end up sitting in the shower for a while and it was definitely helpful.

Taia

THis sounds like a really cool experience. Is it something that you get to choose by yourself, or does your physician have to be trained to do it through this process?

I've seen these plenty of times on the Discovery channel but never done it myself! Wish I had though, after the problems I had getting Alex here! Amy, I think some ob's are trained for it, and most mid-wives. It's just a matter of making your wishes known ahead of time and making sure your provider is in agreement. It is supposedly the easiest way to proceed through labor in terms of its affects on your body. In the warm water your body stays naturally relaxed instead of as tensed up as a normal labor.

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Tigriz
Mom to Alex - 1/21/06

It's all about working with a professional who respects and can accomodate your choices. My midwives' motto is, "Your baby, your way."

My shower labor was with midwives (and I got to see all three in my room that day) in a hospital. The hospital was installing the tub because it was something the patients wanted. My midwives firmly supported water labor, but the hospital policy remained no births in the tub. Chill out for a while, but out when the baby's coming out.

Taia

My sister actually had a whirlpool tub in her hospital room that she sat in while in labor, but the actual birthing process occured on a specially constructed couch.

I'm planning a home waterbirth for Feb. My midwife is lending me the tub so I don't have to rent one.

As a doula I've witnessed two waterbirths. The moms said they were fantastic!
I can't wait!

Waterbirth International is a good place to look [Please register to see this link Register]

Liz

I've heard that this type of birth happens a lot in germany with much success. It makes sense since the baby is used to a wet environment.

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Tai
Maternity.com Forum Director