What should you prepare for a bath birth?

A bath birth offers a relaxing and comfortable option for women who want a more intimate and peaceful environment during labor. Whether you plan to give birth at home or in a birth center, renting a birthing pool can be a valuable addition. Here's an overview of what to prepare and what to expect when renting a birthing pool.

What you need to prepare:

1. Birthing pool:

   • Make sure you rent a suitable birthing pool. These baths are designed for comfort during labor and often have a sturdy edge to lean on.
     
     

2. Cover or tarpaulin:

   • Place a cover or tarpaulin under the birthing pool to catch any spills and protect your floor.
     
     

3. Towels and cloths:

   • Have a pile of soft towels and cloths ready to dry yourself and to dry the baby after birth.
     
     

4. Anti-slip mat:

   • Consider using a non-slip mat on the bottom of the tub to prevent slipping.
     
     

5. Thermometer:

   • With a birthing bath you always receive a thermometer for the bath, so that you can continuously check whether the water is still at the right temperature.
     
     

6. Comfortable clothing:

   • Make sure you have comfortable clothes to wear when you get out of the bath. Think of a nightgown.
     
     

7. Candles/music:

   • Create a relaxing atmosphere with candles, dimmable light or soothing music.

Rent a birthing pool

When you rent a birthing pool, you often receive the following items:

1. Birth bath with protective cover:

   • When you rent a birthing pool, you usually receive a sturdy inflatable bath with a suitable protective cover for your own hygiene.
     
     

2. Water pump:

   • A water pump is often included to make filling and emptying the bath easy.
     
     

3. Air pump:

   • An air pump to quickly inflate the tub is usually included.
     
     

4. Drain hose:

   • For easy drainage of water after childbirth.
     
     

5. Instruction manual:

   • A detailed manual is provided to guide you through setting up, filling and emptying the bath.

Filling the bath:

If you are going to prepare a birthing pool, you must take the following into account:

1. Water temperature:

   • Fill the bath with warm water at a temperature between 37 and 38 degrees Celsius. This is the ideal temperature to keep baby comfortable and reduce the risk of hypothermia.
     
     

2. Timing:

   • Start filling the bath when you notice that the contractions are regular. This gives enough time to get the bath to the right temperature before labor starts.
     
     

3. Water quality:

   • Make sure the water is clean and clear before entering the bath.

A bath birth can be a wonderful experience and with the right preparation and the use of a quality birth bath, you can fully enjoy this unique birth method.