Water birth
Research has shown that if you have your labour in water you will find it less painful and you will be less likely to need an epidural to reduce the pain.
Studies have shown that there is no more risk to you or your baby if you have your labour in water than if you have it out of water. There are some concerns that if the water is too warm then your baby may show signs of distress during labour, however your midwife will regularly check the temperature of the water to check it is safe for you and your baby.
Many maternity units have birthing pools, but these may not be available when you need them. It is worth checking with your midwife if there is a pool and whether you would be able to use it.
Source:
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Cluett ER, Burns E. Immersion in water in labour and birth. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2009, Issue 2. [DOI:10.1002/14651858.CD000111.pub3]
