What do I need for a water birth?

What do I need for a water birth?: A Comprehensive Checklist

Preparing for a water birth at home requires careful planning and gathering of essential items to ensure a safe, comfortable, and memorable experience. Here's is a comprehensive checklist detailing the crucial supplies and equipment you'll need for a successful home water birth.

1. Birth Pool:

Investing in a high-quality birthing pool is paramount for a home water birth. Ensure the pool is spacious enough to accommodate your body comfortably and deep enough for buoyancy. Look for pools specifically designed for water births, featuring sturdy construction, non-slip floors, and inflatable sides for added comfort.

• Browse our selection of Birth Pools

• Air Pump to inflate birth pool

2. Birth Pool Liner:

Using a birth pool liner makes cleaning the birth pool much easier and allows for simple disposable after the birth kit over. Custom liners are available for each birth pool but generic options are also available for a more economical approach.  

• Generic Water Birth Pool Liner

• Large Oasis Generic Pool Liner

3. Clean Water Supply:

Ensure a clean and ample warm water supply for filling the birthing pool. Consider using a hose specifically designated for drinking water for safety. An adapter may also be necessary to connect your hot water supply. 

• Drinking Water Grade Water Hose

• PVC Shower-to-Hose Adapter

• Brass Shower-to-Hose Adapter

• Drain Pump to drain pool

4. Water Thermometer:

Maintaining an optimal water temperature is crucial during a water birth. Invest in a reliable water thermometer to monitor and adjust the water temperature as needed. Ensure the water temperature remains between 95°F to 100°F (35°C to 37.5°C) 

• Floating Water Birth Thermometer

5. Protective Floor Coverings:

Protect your home's flooring and furniture by placing waterproof floor coverings beneath and around the birthing pool. Consider using disposable or reusable waterproof pads, tarps, or plastic sheeting to minimize mess and facilitate easy cleanup post-birth.

• Economy Option: Plastic Floor Covering, 9' x 12'

• Aesthetic Option: Earthside Floor Cover

6. Birthing Attire:

Opt for comfortable and breathable birthing attire. Choose something that allows for easy movement and access during labor and delivery, such as a supportive swimsuit, tankini, sports bra or whatever you are comfortable in.

7. Other Accessories

Here are some other accessories to consider adding to your water birth setup

• LED Underwater Flashlight

• Oval or angled mirror

• Shoulder Length Water Birth Gloves

• Water Birth Net to remove debris from birth pool

• Economy Towels

Conclusion:

We also complete water birth packages which contain many of these items with your choice of birth pool.

Preparing for a water birth at home requires careful planning and gathering of essential supplies and equipment. By investing in high-quality products designed specifically for water births, you can create a safe, comfortable, and empowering environment for your labor, delivery, and bonding with your newborn. Be sure to consult with your healthcare provider and midwife to ensure you have all the necessary items and support for a successful home water birth experience.