Can I only use it once?
Do I use it just for the birth? Absolutely not! Its therapeutic benefits are not limited to labour itself - many women find it very helpful for pelvic and lower back pain in late pregnancy. And it is a great pleasure to luxuriate in a large padded pool. So bathe on your own, with your partner or all the family at once. Invite friends and neighbours and have a pool party! Other siblings will love the pool and no doubt wish to have a turn (in shallower water). However, for safety's sake, never leave children in the pool alone or alone in a room with a full pool.

Cleaning the pool. After each use we recommend the liner is sprayed with a sanitizing detergent we supply, rinsed down with cold water and then bailed out using a jug, or roughly mopped with a clean towel. If you have filled (or part-filled) a pool in readiness for the birth, after more than 24 hours it will need emptying, sanitizing and rinsing before being refilled.

Have a practise run. At the very least use it once, as a practise for the big day because labour is not the time to be trying to follow instructions for the first time. And using the pool will give you the opportunity to arrange it to your liking for when the big day comes.

How does the water stay warm?
Aquabirths pools are designed not to need water heaters in most household settings. The sides of the pool are insulated and the pool is supplied with an insulating cover. This insulation is very effective in keeping the water warm. The pools have enough depth to allow them to be topped up with hot water as needed. If you find you need a heater, we can hire these as well.