The definitive guide to using water during labour and birth Using a deep pool of warm water in labour can make the experience of giving birth shorter, easier and more comfortable for the mother, providing an alternative route to medical pain relief. When birth happens under water, this can help to make the baby's entry into the world gentler and free from trauma. In The Water Birth Book, natural childbirth pioneer Janet Balaskas offers straight-forward guidance for both parents and midwives. This comprehensive and inspiring guide includes: - The benefits of water in labour and birth - Is a waterbirth is the best option for you? - How water can help throughout your pregnancy - How to prepare for your water birth - The best way to use a birth pool - The experience of waterbirth - personal stories.