Are you getting ready for the delivery of a lifetime? When planning a water birth, you will have many questions, comments, and potential concerns. While all these are normal, one of the best ways to prepare yourself and your space for a water birth is to understand exactly what goes into the process and which supplies you may need. Explore the devices and people necessary for a successful water birth.

Initial Preparations

Before you can execute a water birth, there is a series of initial preparations you should consider to ensure you are equipped in all aspects of the process. Mentally, emotionally, and physically, you want to be ready for labor and delivery in whichever setting you choose, whether that is at home or in a designated medical space. You also want to factor in the care and advice of your overseeing provider—a midwife, OB, or primary care physician. These individuals have your best interests in mind and can help you navigate the early decisions of determining if water birth is right for you and how this process could play out.

Upon determining your eligibility for a water birth, your care provider will begin coaching you through mental preparations, physical and emotional preparations, how to navigate potential outcomes, and any risks associated with this birthing method. There is also a possibility they may advise you to plan your water birth in a specific location based on their qualifications and certifications. Some providers attend home water births, while others only perform water birth deliveries in controlled environments such as birthing centers or hospital spaces. Regardless of the delivery space, the general preparations that occur will be consistent.

The Supplies

There are several supplies that accompany a water birth and assist in ensuring the mother, baby, and support team are ready for whatever comes. It is highly likely that your overseeing midwife will already possess these supplies because this is their line of work. But if you know ahead of time the supplies you may encounter, then you won’t experience any value shock while mid-labor.

Birth Pool

A birth pool is one of the primary components of a water birth. The pools are designed specifically for these events and optimize a mother’s overall comfort. When submerged in warm water, you have an increased ability to ease into the contractions, surrender to the process, and relax your entire body, releasing any stored tension and making labor more manageable. Often, birth pools contain a padded floor and a raised seat to lend a hand in comfortability and maximum support.

Thermometer

A thermometer is vital because the water temperature in the birth pool matters. If the water is too warm, you risk overheating while laboring, which can lead to numerous medical concerns. If the water is not warm enough, you may defeat the intended purpose of water birth.

It’s ideal to use the thermometer consistently to monitor the water’s temperature so you can maintain a range of 95 to 99 degrees Fahrenheit. By matching the water temp with the mother’s body temperature, you create a parallel delivery experience for the baby without dramatic fluctuations.

Handheld Mirror

A handheld mirror can surprise some laboring mothers, but the benefits of the mirror are incredible. While in the birth pool, it can be relatively difficult for providers and partners to clearly see the baby’s position or descent. By utilizing a handheld mirror in the water, your provider will not have to ask you to leave the water or change positions mid-contraction or push.

Debris Removal Net

The presence of debris while in labor is normal and nothing to be concerned about. When you’re laboring in the birth pool and debris fills the water, it’s essential for someone on the support team to remove it efficiently. A debris removal net is a unique tool that benefits this process.

Additionally, if you remain in the water to wait for the arrival of the placenta, the debris removal net can help pull it out of the water. Once the placenta emerges, it’s crucial for someone to scoop it out of the water and place it in a bowl while you wait for the cord clamp and cutting.

It’s important to note that you may find a series of other supplies in a well-prepared water birth space. Often, these additional supplies include towels, pee pads, pool liners, a lead-free hose and adapters, and an electric air pump. The amount and location of these supplies will vary based on birth location and care team.

Designated Stations

One of the best ways to properly prepare a space for a water birth is to work with your care providers to set up stations. What does this mean? Everyone involved in the labor and delivery process will be there for your safety, well-being, and success. If there are accessible stations prepared with any small objects you may need, this will create a smoother, more efficient experience for you and your care team.

Labor and delivery are unpredictable, but in that unpredictability is a timeframe. Some mothers experience rapid labor and delivery, while others experience a slower, more steady process. Regardless of these variations, the ability for anyone to quickly and easily access the items a mother may need can make an astounding difference in her progress.

The Right Team

Outside of your care provider team, the additional eyes and hands in the space can affect your labor and delivery. The professionals present are equipped with the knowledge and training to assist you, depending on your progress and positioning. But the partner, family member, or friend you choose to help you may not be able to handle the process.

Their energy can impact yours, so it’s essential to choose wisely. Help your chosen person prepare for the birth by bringing them to appointments with you, watching videos of water births online together, or conducting individual research to ensure they feel confident about their role in supporting you.

At Cascade Health Care, we specialize in assisting mothers and providing midwives with the necessary water birth supplies to be successful. We value the integrity and respect around all birthing wishes, and with our superior selection of supplies and tools, all are equipped with the items they need to bring those wishes to fruition. Connect with us today to learn more about pools, dopplers, and other birth-related supplies.