Wishing for Water Births. Our Readers Write!

Name: Mara • Due Date: 09/07/2008

I am planning a water birth or at least being in the water for part of my labor to reduce pain. I've heard from many women that this helps reduce pain immensely - some say it's as good as drugs, but better for the baby:)

Name: Bobbi • Due Date: 02/28/2006

After having my first child in a hospital, I had my second at home in the tub. The reduction in labor pain was very dramatic. Watching my daughter float up from under me was a magical experience, unclouded by drugs. I went to my birthing center afterwards for 6 hours of observation, and required nothing more than a heating pad for the aftershocks. I hope every woman will look into it, and consider it carefully.

Name: Isabel • Due Date: 07/18/2007

I have had two friends who tried to have waterbirth. It was both their first child, but because of complications or fast labour they had to opt for caesarians or emergency birth. when I first fell pregnant, I had no doubt in my mind that I wanted a water birth. Because I am low-risk I have a large chance of having one. And to sacrifice for one, I have decided to go drug-free completely. I am sure the water will subside the pain a bit. Wish me luck...

Name: nicole • Due Date: 02/04/2007

I just visited a hospital that has been in my area for years and they just relocated and remodeled. I went to see this past weekend and was amazed on how beautiful and serene the labor and delivery unit was. The rooms have a spa tub in the bathroom so you have the choice when you go into labor of having your child on the birthing bed or having a water birth. I am so excited because I wanted the water birth option so I am definitely transfering to the new hospital.

Name: Lesego • Due Date: 08/28/2006

I am planning to have a water birth, i spoke to my midwife and she is happy and about my choice. also spoke to my gynae and he said there is nothing stopping me frorm having a water birth but he will available on stand by just in case something goes wrong. so i impatiently wating for 28 August. when i told my parents which route i'll be taking, i could see they were not happy about my choice, but they dont have much of a say coz i researched about water birth and i know what to expect, both the dangers and benefits. i love water, so i couldnt resist water birth

Name: Gretchen • Due Date: n/a

I had planned to deliver my children with a midwife via waterbirth... until we found out we were having twins, which threw that plan right out the window! However, if I'm lucky enough to have a singleton in the future, I plan to go this route. My midwife agrees that waterbirth is a much kinder, gentler way to introduce babies into the world, and the effect of weightlessness during labor has roughly the same impact as an epidural for pain - meaning I can actually be alert and ENJOY labor & delivery! Good luck to all you mommies that plan to go this route.. I'm jealous!