Gestational diabetes and Birth Center

[Koko1222]

I would love to give birth in water as my first pregnancy the labour was long and ended up having many drugs which I initially didn't want. I really want a water Birth but have gestational diabetes. After food my bloods are amazing ranging from 4 to 6, enver above a 8 (diabetes midwife said my goal was 8.3 or below after meals). But my fasting bloods are always high so been put on metamorfin and 4 pumps of insulin before going to sleep, even though I am bigger theybsaid this is due to the hormones baby is causing as they can clearly see my diet is good (always had a good diet and didn't change anything except putting sweetener in tea instead of sugar).

What is the likelihood of being allowed to have a Birth in the pool? Or at least in the midwife led birth center? I really want to move around and ideally give birth in a squatting/sitting position as before I gave birth on back and it took so long to push baby out. The baby is measuring perfectly for gestation btw

[Seb9]

My birth Centre wouldn't allow me to give birth there because I had a high BMI a well as the GD, I think each trust gave different criteria as to what they'll accept in the birth centre so you'd probably need to speak to your midwife and find out your trusts criteria for using the birth Centre.

[KiboXX]

Same as the previous poster, our birth centre doesn’t accept anyone with GD. You have to have a low risk pregnancy with no complications but it’s definitely worth discussing with your midwife x

[Mcra]

I didn't have GD, but due to other circumstances I had to spend a big part of my labour (6cm +) on my back, so I absolutely understand your wish to avoid that. If your midwife and consultant won't agree to birthing centre, I'd suggest discussing your wishes and concerns to make sure you can give birth in any position you like. Many hospitals have equipment like birthing balls, stools, ropes, and some (including mine) have a pool. So I recommend asking what can be made available to you. Good luck!

[Miracle21]

Hi, firstly congratulations on your pregnancy The MLU's do have different criteria per area but regardless of this, if you are otherwise healthy with no other complications then it is definitely worth approaching the Head of Midwifery to see if they will make an exception in your case. It never hurts to ask. I would also highly recommend writing a birth plan that details your preferences up front regardless of where you birth. This will hopefully mean you get the labour you want. Good luck x