I would love it if we could persuade Dr Fatma Hanim to let me use your pool - I'm sure she wouldn't let me give birth in it (it being my first birth etc), but if she would let me use it for pain management it would be great.  From what I've read and heard, the water is comforting and assists in the pain relief, and having just shed tears of terror having watched the NCT DVD of births (it looks incredibly painful!!) I would like the chance to manage my pain as naturally as possible.

I think I'll also try to leave it as late as possible before I go to the hospital - do you know how much they do fetal monitoring here i.e. is it a standard thing or only ued if they think there could be a problem?  Also, do you know how often episiotomies are given i.e. is it standard or are they happy to let the woman tear if necessary?  Also for the 3rd stage, is it common to give the hormone injection to expel the placenta here?  I do feel a bit out on a limb - I feel a little unprepared, not having had any ante-natal classes!  Do you also know how long after your EDD they will let you go?  Is induction common in Turkey or would they prefer Caesarian?  Also can you get Raspberry leaf tea in Turkey?  I may have left it a bit late for that!!  Does anyone know if they sell birth balls here and if so where from?  I'm sure I saw some yoga balls in Carrefour maybe 6 months ago - I'm kicking myself now for not getting one as I bet the do the same thing, and I haven't seen them since!

Elizabeth, I would love to meet up when you are free - I have now stopped working so am free anytime - hurrah!!  I would love to use your vast knowledge of natural birthing and pain management techniques!!!

Vicky