Preparing the birth plan for my fast approaching due date, I’ve decided a water birth sounds ideal for me.  I don’t cope with pain particularly well and have a long suffering history of painful periods and chronic pain, so all the positive stories I keep reading about water births encourage me to give this method a go.

Even though an epidural previously sounded the most obvious choice, I began to realise it wasn’t going to address all the issues that most concerned me.  Having pregnancy related pelvic girdle pain (PGP) on top of my pre-existing sacroiliitis and fibromyalgia, it didn’t seem the wisest decision to use a drug that would prevent me from gauging my pain and comfort thresholds.

So once I decided that a water birth was right for me I quickly realised I needed to consider my labour wear.  With most advice suggesting a loose nightie or old t shirt for labouring in, something more suitable for the water is necessary for the pool.  Whatever I wear, I need it to be bump accommodating and full bust friendly too.

Thinking about being in pain, there’s a high likelihood that clothing will be the furthest from my mind on the day, and quite possibly, the last thing I want on my body, so I’m quite prepared for the fact I may end up stark naked without giving two hoots.  And I may not even give birth in the pool, as many women end up moving to the bed after labouring in the water.  But I want to make sure I have my options, so packing something easy to wear that’s lightly supportive, ideally wire-free and quick drying was the next hospital bag essential to tick off the list.

Here are a few options to wear both in and out of the birthing pool

*Denotes affiliate links

Cake Maternity Shake Tankini

Sizes S-XL | BUY NOW*

Freya Freestyle Crop Top

Sizes XS-XL | BUY NOW*

Hot Milk My Necessity Bra

Sizes S-XL / DD-F | BUY NOW*

Anita Mavea Maternity Tankini

Sizes C-F / 30-38

Mamalicious Active Fit Vest Top

Sizes S-XL | BUY NOW*

Kinky Knickers Lace Bralet

Sizes XS-L

Hot Milk My Everyday Camisole

Sizes S-XXL / F-H | BUY NOW*

Freya Pier Tankini

Sizes D-G / 30-38 |  BUY NOW*

If you’re planning a water birth have you thought about what to wear?  Found something perfect or are you still unsure what to go for?  I’d love to discuss labour wear in the comments below.