I was hoping to use the birthing pool, but have been told that I probably won't be allowed due to my SPD. They are worried about being able to get me out of the pool quickly enough if there is a complication. I can still get myself in and out of the bath tub, so I don't really see why it is an issue. I'm actually pretty upset about it as I'm at my most comfortable in the bath. It really takes the weight off my pelvis. I'm concerned about finding a comfortable position out of the pool and can see it leading to me needing an epidural, which is something I was hoping to avoid.
I've got SPD and my MW's absolutely fine about me birthing in the pool at home. It does depend on how severe yours is, but if you can get in and out of the bath unassisted then I can't see what the problem is.
I asked my MW about SPD combined with labour pains....something along the lines of "labour pains are gonna be bad enough without the added SPD". She was quite insistent that a) you're producing enough endorphins you don't notice the ligament pain and b) being caused by looser ligaments, the SPD helps for an easier labour. Hmmmmmm, we'll see.