Medically reviewed content. Last updated: April 2026.
Medically reviewed content. Last updated: April 2026.
Using water during labour is one of the most popular forms of natural pain relief in the UK. Whether you want to labour in a pool and get out for delivery, or have your baby born in the water, this guide covers the evidence, practicalities, and how to make it happen.
A water birth means giving birth while you are in a pool or deep bath of warm water. The term is also used more broadly to describe labouring in water, even if you get out before your baby is actually born. Both approaches are widely offered in the UK, and you can decide in the moment what feels right for you.
The water is kept at a comfortable temperature, typically between 36°C and 37.5°C, which is warm enough to be soothing without being hot enough to cause your temperature or the baby's heart rate to rise.
Research and clinical experience support several benefits of using water during labour.
Warm water helps relax your muscles and reduces the intensity of contractions. NICE guidelines recognise water immersion as an effective form of pain relief during labour. Many people find that being in the water means they need less medical pain relief.
Water makes it easier to change positions, as the buoyancy supports your weight. This freedom of movement can help your baby move into a good position for birth and may help labour progress.
The Birthplace Study and other research suggest that people who labour in water are less likely to need an epidural, episiotomy, or instrumental delivery (forceps or ventouse). This is thought to be partly because the pain relief from water reduces the need for medical interventions.
Many people describe the pool as creating a sense of personal space and calm in the labour room. The warm water and enclosed environment can help reduce anxiety and promote the release of oxytocin, the hormone that drives labour.
Advocates of water birth suggest that being born into warm water, rather than air, may be a gentler transition for the baby from the fluid environment of the womb. However, there is limited research comparing baby outcomes specifically between water and land births for low-risk pregnancies.
For low-risk pregnancies, water birth is considered safe by NICE, the RCOG, and the Royal College of Midwives. The evidence shows that for healthy people with uncomplicated pregnancies at term (37 weeks or later), giving birth in water does not increase the risk of harm to the baby.
A large UK study published in the BMJ found no difference in the rate of adverse outcomes (such as NICU admission) between babies born in water and those born on land, among low-risk pregnancies.
However, water birth is not recommended in certain situations.
Your maternity team may advise against using the pool if:
If any of these apply, discuss the options with your midwife or obstetrician. In some cases, you may still be able to use the pool during early labour even if a water birth is not recommended.
Most midwife-led units (MLUs) have birth pools available. These units are designed for low-risk pregnancies and tend to have the most experience with water births. Some units have dedicated pool rooms with atmospheric lighting and space for your birth partner.
Many hospital labour wards also have birth pools, though availability can vary. It is worth asking your maternity unit what is available and whether there is a booking system or if it is first come, first served.
If you are planning a home birth, you can hire or buy a birth pool to set up at home. Inflatable birth pools designed for home use are available from around £30 to £300. Your community midwife can advise on practicalities such as water supply, drainage, and floor protection.
Mention your interest in using the pool at your antenatal appointments so your midwife can include it in your birth plan. They will be able to tell you what is available at your planned birth location and whether there are any reasons it might not be suitable for you.
Note in your birth plan that you would like to use the pool, whether for labour only or for the birth itself. Make clear that you understand it depends on availability and your circumstances on the day.
If you are going to hospital or a birth centre, bring:
Birth pools can be in use by someone else when you arrive, or your circumstances during labour may mean the pool is not the best option. Having a flexible mindset helps. You can also get in and out of the pool as many times as you like during labour.
You can usually get into the pool whenever you feel ready, though many midwives suggest waiting until active labour is established (around 4 to 5cm dilated). Getting in too early can sometimes slow labour down as it may ease contractions before they have built up momentum.
Your midwife will monitor the water temperature regularly and check the baby's heart rate using a waterproof Doppler at intervals. You are free to move, change positions, and find what is most comfortable. Many people use hands and knees, squatting, or a supported upright position in the pool.
You can eat and drink as normal during labour in the pool. Staying hydrated is important, as the warm water can cause you to sweat.
If you choose to stay in the pool for the birth, your baby will be born into the water. Your midwife will guide the baby gently to the surface. Babies do not breathe underwater because the diving reflex prevents them from inhaling until they are exposed to air. Your baby will be brought to the surface and placed on your chest for skin-to-skin contact.
Most midwives will ask you to get out of the pool for the delivery of the placenta (third stage). This makes it easier to assess blood loss and manage the third stage safely.
A water birth means giving birth while you are in a pool or deep bath of warm water. The term is also used more broadly to describe labouring in water, even if you get out before your baby is actually born. Both approaches are widely offered in the UK, and you can decide in the moment what feels right for you.
Research and clinical experience support several benefits of using water during labour.
For low-risk pregnancies, water birth is considered safe by NICE, the RCOG, and the Royal College of Midwives. The evidence shows that for healthy people with uncomplicated pregnancies at term (37 weeks or later), giving birth in water does not increase the risk of harm to the baby.
Your maternity team may advise against using the pool if:
### Midwife-led birth centres
### Talk to your midwife early
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