If you have the possibility of using a birth pool are considering your options, this workshop is a must. The main aim of the workshop is to look at alternative routes to the epidural including your own internal resources through breathing awareness, movement, positions, positive inner visualisation, complementary therapies as well as best way to use a birth pool.

The greatest benefits of using water are for pain relief, privacy and relaxation during labour. Proven as an effective alternative to an epidural for many women, using a pool can shorten labour and increase your chances of a natural birth, whether you choose to leave the pool for the birth itself or not. For this reason alone, it is well worth finding out about the best way to use a water birth pool.

You will also learn about hormones, birth physiology and natural ways to modify pain using homeopathic remedies, essential oils, a TENS machine, massage, movement and breathing awareness that complement the use of a birth pool.

We will look at birth in water from the mother and the baby's perspective and when it might be an appropriate and gentle way for your baby to be born. The partner's role and experience will be included throughout and practical details of setting up and caring for the pool will also be covered.

Janet Balaskas author of  'The Water Birth Book', will give you all the up-to-date information you need. There will be a slide show and a demonstration using a portable birth pool. Handouts will be provided.