Labor Pains

Does a mother-to-be get to pick the type of epidural she gets?

The general answer is no. But I don't think it's unreasonable to ask about it. Some hospitals may not do combined or patient-controlled epidurals, but I think it would be fine to say you've read about these things and want to know if they offer them at your hospital.

You mention in your book that water treatments are among the most popular alternatives being offered by hospitals today. What's that about?

Water treatments are becoming extremely common and they are extremely efficacious. Most women are aware of the soothing effects of a warm bath or hot shower on a sore muscle. Your uterus is a muscle and it's getting a real workout during labor. A warm tub can offer significant pain relief and if nothing else, is a good distraction.