"Water birth"

I got to experience a beautiful water birth at Warren Health Service using the large inflatable pool. My third child and the first that I had been able to water birth (was not available as an option for my first in this area and my second, while I intended for a water birth, unfortunately had to be induced at another hospital).

It was an amazing experience and allowed me more control over my birth and comfort during contractions. I was easily able to move around and change positions to ease contractions, sitting and kneeling on the soft padding of the pool. I'm very sure that it helped me to focus, ease the pain and, dare I say, perhaps even enjoy the process. 

The midwives were very supportive, attentive and a calming presence during my birth. My midwives Tina, Robyn and Erica were amazing, throughout all three pregnancies and both births that I was able to do locally. They genuinely care and will do everything in their power to provide a positive birth and one that is on your terms. 

It was also a pleasure to allow two student nurses to witness the birth, their first, and hope this helps keep their passion; better understand alternative birthing options; and perhaps encourage more midwifery and obstetric graduates to take placements rurally.

Overall I feel so very empowered by the experience and would recommend, if an option to any mummas-to-be, birthing locally at Manjimup/Warren Hospital and having a water birth 🌸 I will never forget the feeling of being able to pull baby up to my chest myself, my hands and body being the very first he felt 🩷