links
SUGGESTED READING
Books
Water Birth Unplugged
Ed. Beverly Beech - Books for Midwives Press 1996 - ISBN 1898507538
Proceedings of the First International Water Birth Conference.
A collection of articles by midwives, obstetricians, campaigners, examining
all aspects of water birth, from why use water, to the role of the midwife,
to research studies and case histories. Lots of statistics on the safety,
effectiveness and outcomes of water birth around the world. This comprehensive
resource makes interesting and reassuring reading.
Waterbirth - An Attitude to Care
Dianne Garland - Books for Midwives Press 1995 - ISBN 1898507333
Written by a Senior Midwife, this looks at water birth from the midwives perspective
but would also be of interest to parents. Describes how she helped set up
the Waterbirth Unit at Maidstone Hospital in the 1980's, and looks at data
from water birth in several other countries. Information about aqua-natal
classes, how water helps with pain-relief, why the baby doesn't drown, and
the management of various complications which may arise during labour or birth.
Waterbirth - The Concise Guide to Using Water during Pregnancy, Birth
and Infancy
Janet Balaskas & Yehudi Gordon - Thorsons 1992 - ISBN 0722527888
Highly informative. In addition to practical information, this book gives
thought-provoking insights into our spiritual and emotional relationships
with water. Ideas for making use of water during pregnancy, to prepare for
birth both physically and emotionally. Describes what it is like to labour
and give birth, and how to enhance the experience with self-help techniques.
Lots of useful advice about using the pool, including labour and birth positions,
plus excellent tips for carers. Also, how to care for your new baby and introduce
swimming.
Out of print.
Choosing Waterbirth - Reclaiming the Sacred Power of Birth
Lakshmi Bertram - Hampton Roads 2000 - ISBN 1571741526
A beautiful celebration of water birth! With a wholistic and personal approach,
Laskshmi describes how water birth can be deeply satisfying and empowering.
An excellent chapter details what happens to a woman's body during the process
of giving birth. How and why to use prenatal yoga to prepare for birth, with
clear instructions and photos. Inspiring accounts of her own five waterbirths.
US publication available through international supplier such as Amazon.
The Waterbirth Handbook - The Gentle Art of Waterbirthing
Dr. Roger Lichy & Eileen Herzberg - Gateway Books 1993 - ISBN 0946551707
This lovely book has a wealth of practical information as well as lots of
fascinating birth stories and photos. Explains how water helps with labour
and pain-relief, and what you can do to enhance these benefits. Information
about using a birth pool at home or in hospital, including different positions
for labour. Discusses safety issues and offers advice for midwives. Authoritative,
reassuring and very inspiring.
Out of print.
Booklets
Choosing a Water Birth
Association for Improvements in the Maternity Services 1998 - ISBN 1874413096
Benefits and risks of water birth, how to arrange a water birth in hospital
and advice on what to do if you encounter obstacles when choosing water birth.
Available from AIMS at
£5.50
Labour and Birth in Water - How and Why You Might Use Water
National Childbirth Trust 2002
Available from NCT
at £2.50
LINKS
AIMS - Association for Improvements in Maternity Services
www.aims.org.uk
Helpline 0870 765 1433
An excellent source of support and information about the different aspects
of maternity care, birth choices and mothers' rights. Contact AIMS if you
should have difficulties arranging a home or water birth; it has lots of experience
in helping parents in this situation. On-line articles, a journal and several
publications available, plus list of local homebirth support groups.
ARM - Association of Radical Midwives
www.radmid.demon.co.uk
Helpline - Mary Kronk 01243 671673
Support for parents and midwives wanting better maternity care. Their on-line
search gives lots of useful information about home birth and water birth,
including interesting discussions about water temperature and having the third
stage in the pool.
Birth Balance
www.birthbalance.com
US water birth site, with pages on the advantages and disadvantages, history
and how to prepare for a water birth.
Doula UK
www.doula.org.uk
A doula is an experienced woman who offers emotional and practical support to a
woman (or couple) before, during and after childbirth. Women who have a doula to
encourage them tend to have a shorter labour, less need for pain relief, and
their chance of having a caesarian is reduced by half. At this site you can
find out more about what a doula can offer, and find one in your area.
Home Birth Reference Site
www.homebirth.org.uk
Angela Horn's well-researched site has loads of information about homebirth and waterbirth,
including birth stories, medical research, how to prepare and how to arrange one.
An excellent resource if you are told "you can't have a homebirth
because…" (you have high blood pressure, an unsuitable home, had a previous caesarian,
are two weeks overdue etc, etc). Lists local support groups.
IMA - Independent Midwives Association
www.independentmidwives.org.uk
Enquiries 01483 821104
How to find your local independent midwife, to hire for a home or hospital
birth. Many are experienced with waterbirth, and births where the mother has
had previous complications.
Sheila Kitzinger
www.sheilakitzinger.com
Website of the campaigner for birth rights and choices, author, teacher. Articles
about water and home birth.
NCT - National Childbirth Trust
www.nctpregnancyandbabycare.com
Enquiries 0870 444 8707
Information and support for pregnancy, birth and after. Local groups throughout
the country provide comprehensive pre-natal classes, homebirth and breast-feeding
support. Contact the UK office for your nearest NCT branch.
Professional Association of Yoga and Childbirth Educators
(formerly Active Birth Teachers Association)
www.yogabirth.org
Lists all registered UK teachers. YogaBirth is a highly effective combination
of yoga exercise, breathing and relaxation techniques to use in preparation
for, and during, labour - physically, mentally and emotionally.
All About Waterbirth & Water Babies: The Waterbirth Website
www.waterbirthinfo.com
Karil Daniels' US site talks about how water birth can be an empowering and spiritual
experience, with several waterbirth stories.
Award-winning Water Baby video available.
OTHER SITES
UKparents - Your Parenting Lifeline, Online
