There is still debate about the best time for a labouring woman to get into the water . If you're having a home birth, you can get in the pool whenever you want. Early contractions can last for many hours, and you may have back ache, too.
Warm water will soothe your back, and help you to relax. It will also help you to store up energy for the hours ahead. If your contractions slow down and get less intense, you could get out of the pool for a while.
If you want to use the pool right from the start of your labour, the water may need to be changed later. Unless a filtration system is fitted, the pool should be emptied, disinfected and refilled after 24 hours.
If you are using a pool in hospital, you may find you'll only be allowed in the water when your cervix is at least 5cm dilated. By this time your contractions are usually pretty strong, as you're in active labour.
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