Setting up a birthing pool

Preparing a birth pool is easy and involves just a few simple steps. If your client will be setting up the pool herself, share these tips beforehand:

1. Preparation and temperature
   Allow the birth pool to acclimate at room temperature for at least 48 hours before setup. This prevents damage and ensures the pool lasts longer.
   
   
2. Choosing the right location
   Select a spacious area with sufficient room around the birthing pool. Unfold the pool on a clean, flat surface.
   
   
3. Inflating the pool
   Use an electric pump to inflate the pool. Start at the bottom and integrated seat, then move upwards through the three air chambers. Initially, inflate the top ring only halfway.
   
   
4. Installing the disposable liner
   Carefully place a hygienic disposable liner inside the birth pool, ensuring it fits snugly around all sides. Tip: first locate the liner section designed to fit around the cup holder, clearly marked on the liner. Once aligned, fully inflate the top ring so the liner sits securely in place.

Filling the birth pool

When filling the birthing pool, maintaining the correct water temperature is essential:

• Fill the pool with water between 36.5°C and 37.5°C, reaching at least the minimum level indicated on the liner.
• Although water temperature typically remains stable, re-check it when the mother reaches around 9 cm dilation. Add warm water via the hose if needed, ensuring the pool is always ready for a potential water childbirth.

Using the birth pool safely

Once set up, your clients can comfortably and safely begin labour in water birth. Pay special attention to:

• Safe entry and exit
  Support clients gently as they step into or out of the pool. The wide edges provide helpful support, allowing the mother to sit briefly during entry or exit.
  
  
• Comfortable birthing positions
  Mothers can easily shift between positions during childbirth in water, often shortening labour duration. Recommended positions include:
• Sitting against the integrated seat for back support.
• Kneeling while leaning against the pool’s wide edge.
• Squatting, using the built-in seat as additional support.

After giving birth in the water

Post-birth care for mother and baby after a water birth is crucial. Specifically, monitor vital signs and blood loss carefully:

• The baby can safely rest skin-to-skin on the mother’s chest in the water.
• Depending on the mother's preference and clinical situation, the placenta can also be delivered in the pool.
• Assist your client out of the pool carefully when she feels ready and her condition allows.

Cleaning the birth pool

Excellent hygiene is essential after every birth in water. Follow these steps or clearly communicate them to your client:

1. Pump out the water
   Use a submersible pump and hose to quickly drain the water into a toilet or suitable drainage area. Secure the hose end under a toilet seat for hands-free convenience.
   
   
2. Remove the disposable liner
   Carefully remove the disposable liner, using it as a convenient disposal bag for birth-related waste. Liners are single-use to maintain hygiene standards.
   
   
3. Clean the birthing pool
   After removing the liner, clean the pool thoroughly with warm water, mild soap, and a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals to preserve the material integrity. Alcohol-based disinfectants are safe if needed.
   
   
4. Allow thorough drying
   Dry the pool completely and let it air-dry for several hours before folding and storing.

Storing your birth pool

Once fully clean and dry, store the birthpool carefully:

• Deflate all air chambers completely with the pump, ensuring the bottom and seat are fully deflated for easy folding.
• Fold the pool neatly and compactly, avoiding sharp creases that might cause damage.
• Store the pool at room temperature in the provided storage bag.

In your practice, you have various options for offering water births. Clients can rent or purchase their own Birth Pool in a Box, or you can manage rental pools yourself and bring them to births. At Birthpools, we provide comprehensive packages and flexible solutions tailored specifically to support and simplify the integration of birthing pools into your professional practice.