E.N.
I am not in that area so there is no one I can recommend, but my midwife may be able to recommend someone. It is Birth Matters http://www.birthmattersinc.com/
I think the difference between water birth and traditional birth is preference, rather than one being better than another. My sister-in-law and a friend of mine both had one of their babies in the water, but it was more by "accident" because the babies came so fast. I wanted to try a water birth with my 2nd baby, but I was living in Northern CA and my midwife there did not recommend it. She was willing to do it if I wanted to, but she had delivered over 10,000 babies (seriously, no exageration) and she did not think it was a good way to deliver. I deferred to her expertise and did not try a water birth. As it was, the birth was perfect. My 10-1/2 pound baby came out in one push, no tearing, and I felt great!
Water is extremely helpful while laboring. Hot water helped me a lot with the labor pains, especially during transition. I have heard many hospitals are allowing access to tubs, or at least to a shower during labor, even if they do not allow a water birth. But I am not an expert, I had both of my babies at home. Since you have an appointment soon, I would just ask the doctor. They can tell you what is allowed where you are going to deliver.
Good luck!
