Can you do a water birth in a Private Hospital?

**pinkbella** · 02-09-2009 20:35

Hi,

Just a question... I forgot to talk to my OB about it at my last appt, actually not too sure if we talk about birthing options this early on. I'm 14 weeks and 2 days at the moment. I am so keen on a waterbirth and DF is supporting whatever i'm comfortable with. Now just wondering if Private hospitals do this or is it just birthing centres?

And when does your OB start talking about birthing options?

This is my first baby so i'm so new to all of this. Hope someone can help

Thankyou so much in advance!

**biscotti** · 02-09-2009 20:39

I had a waterbirth in a private hospital and it was fantastic but I don't think all private hospitals offer them, do a ring round and ask.
I was very straight up with my OB from the start and we started talking birthing options from day one - I wanted a water birth and he was highly supportive

I did shop around though - both Ob and hospital

Good luck

**Opinionated** · 02-09-2009 20:39

I very much doubt it.

I have had ob based care for all my births and although it was good it was lacking in some areas including the ability to water birth if I so desire. My next birth will be at home with an independent midwife if it is still legal then, or in a public birth center where I can have a water birth.

**pinkbella** · 02-09-2009 20:43

Aww I do hope my hospital does waterbirth... I am going to ring up tomorrow and ask.. It's a new hospital opens up first wk of Sept and apparently it's meant to be really really nice and modern so hoping there's a chance for a water birth...

**M O P** · 03-09-2009 09:44

it would depend entirely on the hospital and their facilities
the private hospital I have used and will use again don't have baths but they can help you organise to hire one