What happens if there really is a problem?
We assume that the health and safety of you and your baby are the primary factors that influence decisions about your care. A problem for you or the baby will be handled in the same manner whether you are planning a waterbirth or a birth in bed. All maternity patients at OHSU have access to monitors, medication, obstetric specialists, pediatric specialists and surgical procedures as needed. Certain kinds of problems would not permit the use of the water tub. If a particular concern arises when you are already in the tub, you may be asked to move back to the bed. In general, your pregnancy must be normal with no sign of high blood pressure or problems with the baby. Medical or obstetrical problems that put you and your baby at high risk would preclude birth in the tub. In some instances, you may labor in the tub, but would be required to come out of the tub for delivery only. In preparation: • Read everything you can on waterbirth. • Sign up for our mandatory waterbirth class by calling
