Category: Active Birth Pools

Active Birth Pools and the Enduring Relevance of the “Ten Principles of Good Design”

Built to Last for Decades – Guaranteed for Life

Water birth pools specially designed to give midwives superior safety, comfort and support

When hospitals invest in medical equipment, especially water birth pools, decision-makers must assess value based on a clear set of performance indicators.

Here’s how Active Birth Pools meet and exceed every standard, justifying their place at the top of the premium category.

While options exist at every tier, the true value of a birth pool lies not just in the price—but in how well it performs across key metrics critical to hospital environments.

Water Birth Pool Price Summary  (in UK Pounds Sterling)

• Entry-Level Fixed Birth Pools: £5,000.00 – £8,000.00
• Mid-Range (Enhanced Hygiene & Safety): £8,000.00 – £12,000.00
• Premium Hospital Grade Pools: £12,000.00 – £17,000.00

Key Performance Indicators for Hospital Equipment Purchases

1. Safety and Compliance
   Must meet all health and safety, manual handling and infection control regulations.
2. Sustainability, Durability and Longevity
   Built to withstand continuous use over long period of time with minimal maintenance.
3. Ergonomics and User Experience
   Designed to safeguard and support both the clinical team and labouring mothers.
4. Hygiene and Infection Control
   Prioritizes seamless one-piece construction, easy cleaning, absence of “dirt traps” and antibacterial resistance.
5. Material Quality
   Made from specialised medical-grade materials robust enough to withstand the rigours of constant use and harsh chemical disinfectants.
6. Cost-Efficiency and ROI
   Offers long-term life-cycle value through extended life span.
7. Clinical Effectiveness
   Demonstrated benefits and results for patient care and outcomes.
8. Brand Reputation & Customer Support
   Established trust and reliability in healthcare environments.

How Active Birth Pools Deliver on Every Metric

Safety and Compliance

• Designed to optimise safety, negate risk and deliver safer birthing environments.
• Fully compliant with international medical standards.
• We’ve utilised intelligent design and a range of innovations to negate risk and maximise water safety.
• Slip-resistant surfaces, extra-wide rims and integrated handholds ensure safe, independent movement.
• Negates the manual handling risks commonly associated with water birth pools through innovative design and superior materials.
• Variety of options to facilitate emergency evacuations including portable hoists.
• Simple and safe for mothers to enter the pool without need for bulky step units which present unacceptable risks

Sustainability, Durability and Longevity

• Constructed from Ficore® composite, stronger and more resilient than traditional materials.
• Engineered to last over 25 years in demanding clinical settings.
• The design of Active Birth Pools focuses on durability and longevity, aiming to reduce waste and optimise resources use over time.

Ergonomics and User Experience

• Developed through extensive research to support natural movement and optimal midwife access.
• Designed with midwives’ comfort, safety and well-being firmly in mind. The concave surround and extra-wide rounded rim enables midwives to sit in complete comfort safeguarded from risk of injury.
  
• The contoured interior with integrated seats provide comfort and support to mothers in the wide range of positions natural to labour and birth,

Hygiene and Infection Control

• Seamless, non-porous surface eliminates places for bacteria to propagate.
• Bespoke drainage systems and advanced design reduce cross-contamination risks.
• Absence of surface mounted metal work (taps, handgrips etc.) which presents significant infection control risks in other birthing pools

Material Quality

Active Birth Pools are fabricated from a highly specialised material called Ficore® composite that has many advantages when compared to fibreglass or acrylic:

• Highly polished surface is tactile and warm to the touch.
• Superior heat retention (less then .7 degree per hour heat loss).
• Seamless one-piece construction.
• Easier to clean and more resistant to bacteria.
• Less slippery
• Superior strength and durability – 5 x stronger than materials used in manufacture of other birthing pools.
• More resistant to damage and easily repaired like new if need be.

Cost-Efficiency and ROI

• Virtually maintenance-free and energy-efficient.
• Lower lifetime costs than cheaper alternatives due to minimum down-time and long-lasting performance.
• Stunning design helps create world-class water birth facilities that attract clients.
• Optimises hospital resources increasing revenue and reducing costs

Clinical Effectiveness

• Proven to support natural labour progression, reduce pain, and enhance relaxation.
• Endorsed by maternity professionals world-wide for ease of use and improved patient satisfaction and outcomes.
• Ergonomic design ensures midwives can maintain proper posture, reducing physical strains and improving overall results and job satisfaction.

Brand Reputation and Customer Support

• Over the past 38 years Active Birth Pools have supplied hundreds water birth pools to leading hospitals worldwide.
• Supported by unparalleled experience, expert consultation, and robust aftercare.
• Built to last for decades and backed by a unique lifetime guarantee

Why Active Birth Pools Are the #1 Choice Worldwide

• Premium-quality construction and unrivalled clinical design place us at the very top of the water birth pool market.
• We are the only manufacturer using Ficore® composite, ensuring unmatched safety, sustainability, hygiene, durability and overall performance.
• Active Birth Pools deliver exceptional safety, value and performance over decades, far surpassing the expectations of the £12,000–£15,000+ premium tier.
• We helped pioneer the use of water for labour and birth by designing the water birth pools that made this revolution in maternity care possible.
• Since 1987 we’ve supplied thousands of birthing pools to hospitals world-wide and helped millions of women have better births.
• Trusted partner to maternity services around the globe, supporting safe, empowering, midwife-led care.

When hospitals choose Active Birth Pools, they’re not just buying a product—they’re investing in the safest, most effective, and most durable solution on the market.

Visit our Information Hub to find out more:

Active Birth Pools Information Hub

Why Water Birth Pools Designed by Keith Brainin and Manufactured by Design and Form are the Superior Choice for Hospitals

We’re uniquely qualified to be of service

In the world of industrial design, few principles have stood the test of time like those set forth by Dieter Rams. Among his “Ten Principles of Good Design,” one stands out for its quiet power and enduring relevance: “Good design is as little design as possible.” This idea champions simplicity, honesty, and restraint—a philosophy that aligns perfectly with the ethos behind Active Birth Pools.

At Active Birth Pools, we design water birth pools not just as products, but as environments. Our pools support one of life’s most natural and transformative events: childbirth. This is not a time or place for gimmicks, clutter, or over-engineering. Instead, our focus is on creating objects that are intuitive, purposeful, and deeply respectful of the experience they’re designed to serve.

Form Follows Function—And Empathy

When we say “as little design as possible,” we’re not talking about doing less. We’re talking about doing only what’s essential—and doing it beautifully. Every curve, surface, and contour of an Active Birth Pool is there for a reason. There is no ornamentation, no unnecessary elements added to make a statement. The pool’s elegant, organic form is shaped entirely by the physiological needs of women in labour and the practical requirements of midwives and clinical staff.

The result is a design that feels as natural as the process it supports. It invites instinctive use and makes sense without explanation. This is design that understands the moment and quietly serves it.

Design That Disappears Into the Experience

Our goal is not to impress with visible complexity but to enable a powerful experience through simplicity. When a woman enters an Active Birth Pool, she shouldn’t be thinking about the product; she should be free to focus entirely on herself and her baby. The pool becomes part of the background—supportive, safe, unobtrusive. It’s not a showpiece; it’s a silent partner in birth.

This kind of “invisible” design is only possible when everything unnecessary is stripped away. What remains is the essence—a sculptural yet practical space that feels calm, grounded, and purposeful.

Integrated, Not Added-On

Good design does not bolt on features. It integrates them. At Active Birth Pools, every element—whether it’s a hand grip, step, or recessed area for medical access—is part of the form itself. There are no visible seams, fixtures, or accessories that suggest improvisation. Everything flows together in a unified whole, contributing to both safety and aesthetics.

This seamless integration also supports infection control and long-term durability—crucial factors in hospital environments. But more than that, it’s a commitment to clarity and coherence in design.

Material Honesty and Tactile Comfort

We select materials not just for their performance but for their sensory qualities. The finish of our pools is smooth, warm, and inviting to the touch. It’s easy to clean, gentle against the skin, and psychologically comforting—a key consideration for women in labour.

This is another way we practice “as little design as possible.” We let the materials speak for themselves, choosing those that support the function and the feeling without the need for artificial textures or decorative layering.

Quiet Confidence in a Clinical World

In hospital settings, design can often be sterile or overbearing. By contrast, Active Birth Pools offer a quiet confidence. Their presence in a room is understated yet reassuring. They don’t try to dominate the space; they help define it with dignity and grace.

This sense of calm and order is not just aesthetic—it’s functional. A well-designed pool reduces stress, supports natural movement, and allows midwives to work more effectively. In this way, minimal design becomes a powerful tool for improving outcomes.

Conclusion: Less, But Better

At its core, “good design is as little design as possible” is about restraint, intention, and clarity. It’s about stripping away the noise to let the true purpose shine through. This philosophy is not a style—it’s a discipline. And it’s one we practice daily at Active Birth Pools.

By honouring the principle of minimal design, we’ve created birth pools that are not only clinically superior and user-friendly, but emotionally supportive and deeply human. In a world of overdesigned solutions, our pools stand as a quiet reminder: sometimes, the best design is the one you don’t notice at all.

Active Birth Pools Information Hub

Key performance metrics for hospital grade water birth pools

Water birth pools specially designed to give midwives superior safety, comfort and support

Why Active Birth Pools Are the Long-Term Choice for Hospitals

When it comes to investing in hospital equipment, especially in high-use environments like maternity units, durability isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity. At Active Birth Pools, we understand the pressure healthcare environments face to balance safety, sustainability, and value. That’s why our water birth pools are quite literally built to last for decades — and guaranteed for life.

Designed for Strength, Engineered for Life

The secret behind the lasting power of our birth pools lies in the material we use: Ficore® composite — a specialised, proprietary material developed to deliver outstanding strength, resilience, and safety.

Unlike acrylic or fibreglass alternatives, Ficore® is far more robust and highly resistant to wear and damage. It’s designed to cope effortlessly with the intensive daily use of modern maternity units, remaining stable, smooth, and secure even after years of continuous service.

Seamless One-Piece Construction

Every Active Birth Pool is manufactured as a single, seamless piece. Why does this matter?

• It eliminates joints and seams where bacteria can accumulate
• It ensures superior structural integrity and hygiene
• It reduces the risk of cracking or failure over time
• It simplifies cleaning and maintenance, supporting infection control protocols

This seamless design also supports a better birthing experience by providing smooth, ergonomic curves that are gentle to the touch and incredibly comfortable for mothers and midwifes.

Guaranteed for Life — With Confidence

We believe so strongly in the quality of our pools that we back them with a lifetime guarantee.

This isn’t just a marketing line. It’s a statement of confidence in our engineering and a promise of support to our clients. When hospitals choose Active Birth Pools, they aren’t just buying a product — they’re investing in a lasting partnership.

Sustainability and Cost-Efficiency in One

Longevity = sustainability.

By designing birth pools that last for decades without the need for repair or replacement, we significantly reduce material waste, transport costs, and energy consumption. Hospitals that prioritise eco-friendly procurement will find Active Birth Pools an excellent fit for their sustainability goals.

And with minimal maintenance costs, a low total cost of ownership, and no need for periodic refurbishment, our pools offer exceptional long-term value.

Trusted Worldwide

Our birth pools are in service in hospitals across the UK, Europe, Australia, and beyond. Maternity teams, architects, and hospital procurement departments repeatedly choose us because they know our pools are:

• Safe and user-friendly
• Highly durable and hygienic
• Compliant with infection control standards
• Backed by decades of design and clinical expertise

The Verdict

When you choose an Active Birth Pool, you’re choosing peace of mind. You’re choosing a product that’s stood the test of time in some of the world’s busiest birth centres. You’re choosing sustainability, cost-efficiency, and best-in-class safety.

Most importantly, you’re choosing a water birth pool that’s built to last for decades — and guaranteed for life.

Key performance metrics for hospital grade water birth pools

Superior Material = Superior Safety, Value and Performance

Water birth pools specially designed to give midwives superior safety, comfort and support

In the world of design, few voices have resonated more deeply or enduringly than that of Dieter Rams. Known for his iconic work with Braun and Vitsoe, Rams articulated Ten Principles of Good Design—a framework that has influenced generations of designers across disciplines. His philosophy is rooted in clarity, functionality, sustainability, and the idea that design should exist in harmony with the user and the environment.

At Active Birth Pools, these principles are not just admired—they are intrinsically embedded into the company’s design ethos, guiding every aspect of product development, from material selection to user interaction. Here’s how each of Rams’ principles finds clear expression in the design and manufacture of Active Birth Pools:

1. Good Design is Innovative

Innovation in Active Birth Pools is not about novelty for its own sake—it’s about continuous improvement in service of mothers and midwives. These pools integrate cutting-edge composite materials and ergonomic sculpting to meet the evolving needs of modern maternity care. Innovations such as integrated support features and seamless construction enhance both comfort and hygiene, setting new standards in birthing pool design.

2. Good Design Makes a Product Useful

The primary purpose of a birthing pool is to support women through the physical and emotional journey of childbirth. Active Birth Pools are designed to enhance natural birth by promoting freedom of movement, buoyancy, and pain relief. Every contour, shape, and feature is purpose-built to serve both the mother’s needs and the midwife’s functionality requirements. Usefulness is paramount, with nothing superfluous or merely decorative.

3. Good Design is Aesthetic

While functionality leads, aesthetics are not ignored. The organic shapes and flowing lines of Active Birth Pools evoke calm, safety, and softness. The visual harmony of the pools reflects the emotional atmosphere needed in a birthing environment—serene, supportive, and nurturing. Their presence in a room transforms a clinical setting into a place of dignity and intimacy.

4. Good Design Makes a Product Understandable

An Active Birth Pool communicates its function intuitively. Without the need for instructions, women and birth professionals can immediately understand how to use its features. Thoughtful design—like strategically placed handholds and specially designed seats—ensures that interaction with the pool is natural and self-explanatory.

5. Good Design is Unobtrusive

Active Birth Pools do not dominate the birth space; they complement it. With their minimalist, sculptural appearance, they create a quiet sense of readiness. The design does not impose itself but respects the primacy of the birth experience, providing a gentle, supportive presence that encourages empowerment and privacy.

6. Good Design is Honest

There is no deception in an Active Birth Pool. Its form follows its function, and its materials are authentic and appropriate. The integrity of the design is reflected in visible quality and craftsmanship. There are no gimmicks—just a sincere commitment to excellence in support of natural birth.

7. Good Design is Long-lasting

Active Birth Pools are built to last for decades and guaranteed for life. Using high-performance, medical-grade materials and precision manufacturing, these pools are designed for longevity in high-demand hospital environments. Their timeless design ensures they remain relevant and effective, resisting the ephemerality of trends. They are an investment in sustainable maternity care.

8. Good Design is Thorough Down to the Last Detail

From the tactile, non-slip surfaces to the ergonomically optimised rim, every detail is meticulously considered. Nothing is left to chance. This attention to detail ensures safety, hygiene, and ease of use—critical aspects in any healthcare setting. It is a level of refinement that shows deep respect for both users and caregivers.

9. Good Design is Environmentally Friendly

Active Birth Pools are created with sustainability in mind. Their durability reduces waste over time, while efficient manufacturing processes and long product life cycles contribute to lower environmental impact. The choice of materials reflects a commitment to health and environmental safety, aligning with the needs of an increasingly eco-conscious world.

10. Good Design is as Little Design as Possible

This principle, perhaps more than any other, captures the soul of Active Birth Pools. There is no excess, no ornamentation, no distractions—only what is necessary to create the optimal environment for labour and birth. The purity of form, the clarity of purpose, and the simplicity of use reflect the ethos of “less, but better” in its purest expression.

Conclusion: Design with Integrity, Purpose, and Compassion

Dieter Rams’ principles are more than a manifesto for industrial design—they are a call for ethical, human-centered creation. Active Birth Pools has embraced these principles, not as a marketing tool, but as a core philosophy guiding every product decision.

By aligning with Rams’ Ten Principles, Active Birth Pools has created not only world-class birthing pools but also a legacy of design integrity in the service of life’s most profound moment—birth. In a healthcare landscape often dominated by cold functionality, Active Birth Pools reminds us that good design is compassionate design.

Active Birth Pools Information Hub

Water birth pools specially designed to give midwives superior safety, comfort and support

Key performance metrics for hospital grade water birth pools

Join the Leading Global Supplier of Water Birth Pools

Active Birth Pools is actively seeking qualified distributors to join our international network.
As demand for water birth facilities continues to grow worldwide, this is a unique opportunity to represent a proven, premium brand in one of the most dynamic segments of the maternal healthcare market.

The Global Market for Water Birth Pools is Expanding

The maternity care sector is undergoing a significant shift toward more holistic, natural birth practices. Water birth is now widely recognised as a safe, evidence-based method for reducing labour stress and improving maternal outcomes. As healthcare providers respond to growing patient demand, the market for professional-grade birth pools is growing steadily world-wide.

• The global water birth pool market is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 8.5%,
• Hospitals, birth centres, and private maternity clinics are actively investing in water birth infrastructure.
• Governments and healthcare regulators are increasingly supportive of natural birth methods, including hydrotherapy.

Now is the time to position yourself at the forefront of this expanding sector.

Why Partner with Active Birth Pools?

Established in 1987 – Active Birth Pools is the world’s leading manufacturer of hospital-grade water birth pools, specified by hundreds of healthcare providers globally.

As a distributor, you’ll be backed by:

• Proven Product Leadership
  Our pools are designed in collaboration with midwives and healthcare professionals. Award-winning, fully compliant, and manufactured in the UK from our exclusive Ficore® composite, they set the global benchmark for quality and durability.
• Strong Brand Equity
  Trusted by NHS trusts and leading hospitals worldwide for over 37 years. Our reputation is built on innovation, reliability, and unmatched service.
• Exclusive Territory Agreements
  We offer defined distribution territories and long-term partnership opportunities, ensuring a clear path for business development.
• Sales & Technical Support
  Full access to training, sales materials, digital assets, and engineering support to help you drive adoption and build your client base.
• High Margin Potential
  Our premium product range offers excellent commercial potential with healthy margins.

Ideal Distributor Profile

We’re looking to partner with organisations who:

• Operate in the medical equipment, maternity, or hospital supply sectors
• Have strong networks within healthcare procurement or facility development
• Are committed to representing high-quality, specialised products
• Can offer local sales guidance and aftercare support

A Growth Opportunity in a Niche Market

Distributing Active Birth Pools allows you to align with a future-focused area of maternity care and differentiate your portfolio with a best-in-class solution. Whether you’re looking to diversify your current offering or establish a new revenue stream, we provide a proven product with growing global demand.

Let’s Talk
Email us – If you’re ready to explore the commercial potential of Active Birth Pools contact us today to discuss distribution opportunities.

Active Birth Pools Information Hub

Active Birth Pools: Videos

Water Birth Pools

Click the image below to see a pictorial history of Active Birth Pools, testimonials from clients and associates and a comprehensive list of the hospitals that we have supplied over the past 38 years.

We are pleased to announce that the Active II/360 Water Birth Pool with bespoke Water Column has just been announced as a winner in the prestigious Design MasterPrize Award.

Judges said that,

“The Active II/360 was a sophisticated solution tailored for healthcare facilities striving to provide exemplary maternity care.

This advanced combination integrates a state-of-the-art water birth pool with a functional and stylish water column, epitomising the latest in design innovation and material technology for the maternity care sector.

The focus has been on creating a solution that offers superior functionality, safety, and comfort, while also addressing the practical needs of both healthcare providers and mothers.”

The Design Masterprize (DMP) stands as a pinnacle of design achievement, committed to promoting global excellence in the field.

This prestigious international contest, akin to its sister organization, the Architecture Masterprize (AMP) architecture awards, emphasizes the influential role of design in a variety of sectors, including product, communication, and graphic design.

The combination of evidence based, user-centred, ergonomic design, highly specialised materials and bespoke manufacturing result in water birth pools that are in a class of their own.

Active Birth Pools were the subject of a study conducted by the Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors, the recipient of the Building Better Healthcare Award, the European Design Award and the Design Master Prize Award.

 

 

We’ve been dedicated to designing and supplying water birth pools since 1987.

We developed the world’s first specially designed water birth pools and have gone on to supply hundreds of hospitals world-wide,

Over this time we have gained a unique understanding and ability to design and supply water birth pools of exceptional quality that outperform all others in every way.

We helped pioneer the use of water for labour and birth by providing the pools that made this revolution in maternity care possible.

We’ve achieved success by caring about every detail, keeping things simple and focusing on our core principles of Safety, Value and Performance.

A passion for excellence and commitment to supporting midwives and helping mothers have a better experience of labour and birth defines our approach.

Our unrivalled knowledge and wealth of experience enable us to provide water birth pools that minimise risk, optimise results and maximise value.

“The new pool has been specially designed to be easily accessible, with improved seating and design so women can sit on the side or lean over and adapt different positions during labour. It also features LED lights which adds to the ambiance of the birthing room, helping to create a more relaxed and comfortable environment.”

Sophie Moss Midwife Royal Stoke and County Hospital

Mothers and midwives love our water birth pools

• Mothers benefit from complete freedom of movement and unparalleled comfort and support .
• Midwives report better results, and say that our pools are fabulous and a pleasure to use.
• Buyers like the fact that they’re the safest on the market, built to last for decades and guaranteed for life.

Active Birth Pools stands as a prime choice for midwives and hospitals due to our dedication to quality, safety, and innovation.

But, please don’t take our word for it.

Click below to find out what our clients have to say and  gain an understanding of the scope our achievement over the past 38 years.

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A cross section of FICORE® composite

Active Birth Pools are fabricated from a highly specialised material called Ficore® composite that has many advantages when compared to fibreglass or acrylic:

• Extra-ordinary long-term life cycle value and sustainability
• Highly polished surface is less slippery, more tactile and warm to the touch
• Superior heat retention (less then .7 degree per hour heat loss)
• Seamless one-piece construction easier to clean and more resistant to bacteria
• Improved hygiene, water safety and infection control
• Allows us to produce highly sculpted forms with more sharply defined details
• Superior strength and durability
• More resistant to damage and easily repaired like new if need be

Due to Ficore’s high insulation factor and double-wall construction Active Birth Pools maintain water temperature up to 7 times longer.

You’ll notice a significant difference in the surface temperature between Ficore and the other materials.

Ficore is warmer due to the fact that it is composite resin that is much denser than acrylic and fibreglass.

However, if it is damaged, it can be completely repaired as new – unlike many alternative materials.

Ficore is able to withstand both continuous heat or hot water and thermal shock of alternating hot and cold water.

An Active Birth Pool manufactured in Ficore meets or exceeds all relevant regulations and will withstand the rigours of heavy hospital use and disinfection with caustic chemicals.

Water birth pools made from Ficore composite offer a range of benefits that far surpass those made from traditional materials like fibreglass or acrylic.

Ficore provides superior heat retention, enhanced durability, exceptional hygiene standards, and improved safety through its slip-resistant and tactile surface.

These qualities make Active Birth Pools the ideal choice for birthing environments, offering a safer, more comfortable, and hygienic option for water births

Ficore® composite data and specification

Active Birth Pools Information Hub

Clients and Testimonials

Designed to optimise safety, negate risk and deliver safer birthing environments

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When it comes to the creation and care of water birth facilities nothing is more important then Health and Safety.

Micro-organisms breed freely in warm moist environments and must be prevented from propagating.

The potential for water birth pools to be both a habitat and a delivery medium for harmful bacteria such as Pseudomonas and Legionella is well known.

We completely understand this and engineered our water birth pools to optimise safety, negate risk and deliver safer birthing environments.

Seamless one-piece construction in Ficore combined with the minimum of fittings result in water birth pools of unparalleled hygiene and water safety.

Active Birth Pools are fabricated from proprietary material with unique qualities called Ficore®  composite.

Ficore has much higher degree of strength, durability and resistance to bacteria when compared to fibreglass or acrylic.

Seamless, one-piece construction in Ficore® improves hygiene by denying bacteria the environment to grow.

The ultra-hard surface makes our water birth pools easier to clean and more resistant to bacteria.

With Health Department Regulations as a guideline we have utilised intelligent design and a range of innovations to negate risk and maximise water safety.

In addition to the advantages that Ficore give our pools from a material perspective we need to look at the advantages it provides from an engineering and manufacturing perspective.

Ficore’s unique properties allow us to design our pools with flowing, organic forms that improve hygiene by facilitating more effective cleaning.

The super smooth finish and flowing contours optimise drainage and eliminate “dirt traps”.

Hand grips

Our stainless steel hand grips, supplied by renown brassware manufacturer Samuel Heath are bonded directly into the pool

They are not surface mounted like on other birthing pools.

The bar is solidly sealed into the fabric of the pool with Ficore.

There are no gaps – there is no movement.

This make it impossible for moisture penetrate and for bacteria to breed.

Drainage System

Our drainage is purpose designed and manufactured to the highest standards.

It has been a subject of interest of numerous investigations by infection control specialists, all of them who came back to use to give their approval.

The waste sits in a recess and is double sealed in with silicone for a water tight, bacteria resistant seal.

The stainless steel fittings are made from solid brass and won’t be damaged from use of of chlorides and other disinfectants.

The plug can be taken out and soaked in hypochlorite in between births.

The rim mounted control wheel can be easily removed for cleaning.

Multi-Colour LED Underwater Lighting

The internal light fitting fits flush to the sidewall, has a stainless steel bezel and is sealed in with silicone.

Due to the fact that the fittings are water tights and vertically mounted water cannot penetrate or build up.

The control switch on the rim is is also water tight and fully sealed.

Taps and Showers

We do not supply taps but recommend 3/4″ thermostatic bath or bath/shower mixers like the Rada T3.

Taps are never mounted on the rim but on the wall or water column as shown above.

Spouts should be 25cm above the rim to prevent contact from pool water and to protect the mother from hitting her head.

Handheld showers are very useful for cleaning the pool but must be detachable so they can be removed while the pool is in use.

Freestanding water birth pools are becoming increasingly popular.

For wall mounted installations the thermostatic taps, spout, handheld shower and grab rail are fixed to an IPS Panel in accordance with health department regulations.

For freestanding birthing pools a solution needed to be found.

To solve this problem we developed the Water Column – a bespoke design concept that separates the plumbing from the pool to optimise hygiene and water safety and provide crucial support for mothers and midwives.

It’s highly utilitarian, sleek ergonomic design complements the look and usability of our pools.

Health and Safety risks you need to be aware of before buying a water birth pool

Manual handling risks associated with water birth pools

Water Birth Safety Initiative

Place your cursor on the model below to move the image around.

Active 360 Water Birth Pool
Data Sheet

Venus II Water Birth Pool
Data Sheet

Venus 360 Water Birth Pool
Data Sheet

Princess II Water Birth Pool
Data Sheet

Princess 360 Water Birth Pool
Data Sheet

Water Column
Data Sheet

Please note – the water column is supplied without plumbing or fittings – shown Rada T3 Bath/Shower Mixer and Grohe hand held shower.

Would you like to see how our water birth
pools will look in your delivery room?

Simply click on this link with your phone or tablet.

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Setting the Standard in Water Birth Pool Excellence

When it comes to water birth pools for hospitals, performance, safety, durability, and sustainability are non-negotiable.

In a market where quality and value are paramount, Active Birth Pools, designed by water birth pioneer Keith Brainin and manufactured to order by hand at Design Form in England, stand out as the clear leaders.

With over 40 years of excellence in bath manufacture, Design and Form’s expertise in working with Ficore® composite has revolutionised the industry. Combined with Active Birth Pools’ innovative design, the result is a product that offers unrivalled performance, long-term value, and enhanced safety, making it the superior choice for maternity units worldwide.

1. Exceptional Performance: Ficore® Composite Redefines Durability and Comfort

At the heart of Active Birth Pools’ superiority is Ficore® composite, an advanced, proprietary material that surpasses conventional acrylic and fibreglass in every meaningful performance metric.

Strength and Durability

Ficore® is a highly durable composite that is:

• Five times stronger than traditional acrylic.
• Highly impact- and scratch-resistant, minimising damage from daily use and cleaning.
• Resistant to surface degradation, preventing issues like discolouration and cracking, which are common with lower-grade materials.

Thermal Efficiency

Water temperature consistency is vital for labouring women’s comfort and safety. Ficore® offers:

• Superior heat retention, keeping water at the desired temperature for longer, reducing the need for frequent topping-up.
• Lower energy consumption due to reduced heating demands, contributing to cost efficiency and sustainability.

User Comfort and Experience

Unlike traditional materials, Ficore® offers a unique warm-to-the-touch surface, enhancing comfort for birthing mothers. Its smooth, tactile finish provides a soothing, spa-like experience that promotes relaxation during labour.

2. Unmatched Value: Long-Term Investment with Lower Lifetime Costs

Hospitals demand solutions that offer both quality and value. Active Birth Pools, crafted  by hand in Ficore®, provide exceptional return on investment through their longevity and low maintenance requirements.

Minimal Maintenance, Maximum Lifespan

Ficore®’s exceptional strength means these pools maintain their pristine condition for decades. Unlike acrylic or fibreglass pools, which require regular refinishing or replacement, Ficore® pools:

• Retain their original appearance and structural integrity for 25+ years.
• Require minimal maintenance, saving hospitals time and money on upkeep.

Reduced Repair and Replacement Costs

Cheaper pools made from standard acrylic or fibreglass often crack, fade, or degrade over time, leading to costly repairs or full replacements. Active Birth Pools eliminate this risk, providing lasting value and reduced lifecycle costs.

3. Sustainability: A Greener Choice for Modern Hospitals

As hospitals increasingly prioritise sustainability, choosing environmentally responsible products is essential. Active Birth Pools, manufactured in Ficore®, excel in this area.

Energy Efficiency

Ficore®’s superior thermal properties reduce the need for continuous reheating, lowering energy consumption. This contributes to:

• Lower carbon footprints for hospitals.
• Reduced operational costs over the pool’s lifetime.

Sustainable Manufacturing

Design and Form’s commitment to sustainability includes:

• Efficient manufacturing processes that minimise waste.
• Use of recyclable materials, reducing environmental impact.
• Durable products that significantly extend the replacement cycle, reducing waste over time.

4. Safety and Hygiene: Designed for Patient and Staff Wellbeing

In hospital settings, safety is paramount. Active Birth Pools are meticulously designed with user safety and infection control in mind.

Enhanced Safety Features

• Integrated handrails and ergonomic shapes provide safe, intuitive support for mothers during labour and birthing.
• Non-slip surfaces minimise the risk of falls or accidents, enhancing safety for both patients and midwives.

Infection Control and Easy Cleaning

Ficore®’s non-porous surface prevents the buildup of bacteria, mould, and biofilm. This ensures:

• Enhanced hygiene standards, meeting stringent hospital infection control protocols.
• Faster, more efficient cleaning and disinfection, streamlining staff workflows.

5. Bespoke Design and Customisation

Active Birth Pools are not only built for performance but also offer customisation to meet hospital-specific requirements. With Design and Form’s precision manufacturing, each pool is made to exacting specifications, ensuring:

• Optimal dimensions for maternity suite layouts.
• A variety of colours and finishes to complement modern birthing environments.
• Tailored features that enhance both functionality and aesthetics.

Conclusion: The Clear Choice for Maternity Units

Active Birth Pools, designed in the UK and manufactured by Design and Form in England, represent the pinnacle of quality, performance, and value in the water birth pool market. The combination of innovative design, Ficore® composite construction, and decades of manufacturing expertise results in a product that:

• Outperforms competitors on strength, durability, and thermal efficiency.
• Offers long-term value through reduced maintenance and lifecycle costs.
• Meets sustainability goals with energy-efficient and eco-conscious production.
• Prioritises safety and hygiene, ensuring optimal conditions for both patients and staff.

For hospitals seeking unparalleled reliability, cost-effectiveness, and patient comfort, Active Birth Pools are the clear and superior choice.

Choose Active Birth Pools to invest in the finest water birth pools on the market—built for performance, designed for safety, and long-term life cycle value.

Superior Material = Superior Safety, Value and Performance

Active Birth Pools Information Hub

Catalogue, Testimonials and Reports

 

If you look at the back rim of our new range of water birth pools you’ll notice a “keyhole” shaped channel that runs down to the floor of the pool.

The “water channel” is an innovation in water birth pool design unique to Active Birth Pools.

We trialled it when we designed the Princess Pool in 2014 and we’re so pleased with the result that we gradually incorporated it into our other pools as well.

The water channel has two import functions:

1. It protects mothers by preventing them from hitting their heads on the spout
2. It opens up the inside of the pool to 360 degrees of unobstructed movement

We have always thought that there is a unacceptable risk of mothers hitting their heads on the spout (the risk of this happening is multiplied exponentially with rim mounted taps).

The thought of this happening is abhorrent to us so we decided to something about it.

With the taps mounted on the wall 25cm above the rim and spout the centred above the water channel it is virtually impossible for mothers to hit their head on it.

This is clearly illustrated in the photo below.

With the water channel in place we redesigned the back half of the pool to give mothers greater freedom of movement.

Mothers are now able to the utilise the full internal circumference the pool to explore a greater range of positions.

They can actually lean against the back end of the pool without fear of hitting their head and use the recessed handgrips or wrap around bull-nosed shaped rim to grab onto for support.

The pools have been redesigned to make midwives more comfortable and give them greater access around the perimeter of the pool.

The flange (where the pool meets the wall) has been reduced to 50cm and the curves around the back section broadened.

This not only makes the pool more sensuous and appealing from both a psychological and aesthetic perspective but more utilitarian.

Midwives can now get round the back of the pool to a much greater extent and sit in comfort with their legs underneath the extra wide rim.

All in all we feel that this simple innovation has been a game changer that makes our water birth pools safer and more user-friendly.

Intelligently designed to safely fulfil the needs of mothers and midwives

If you’re looking for a water birth pool we are uniquely qualified to be of service

Winner – Building Better Healthcare Awards

Judges at the prestigious European Design Awards awarded first prize to the Active II/360 Water Birth Pool in the Healthcare: Safety Design Category.

European Product Design Award (ePDA) is a cutting-edge global event dedicated to elevating and promoting the art of Product Design.

The European Product Design Award™ recognises the efforts of talented international product designers who aim to improve our daily lives with their practical, well-thought-out creations.

Introducing the Active II/360 Water Birth Pool with
Bespoke Water Column: A Pinnacle of Maternity Care 

Active Birth Pools offers the Active II/360 Water Birth Pool with Bespoke Water Column, a sophisticated solution tailored for healthcare facilities striving to provide exemplary maternity care.

This advanced combination integrates a state-of-the-art water birth pool with a functional and stylish water column, epitomizing the latest in design innovation and material technology for the maternity care sector.

Advanced Development for Modern Healthcare Needs

The Active II/360 Water Birth Pool, a product of Active Birth Pools, is designed to meet the evolving demands of contemporary maternity care.

Paired with the Bespoke Water Column, this system is the result of extensive research and collaboration with healthcare professionals.

The focus has been on creating a solution that offers superior functionality, safety, and comfort, while also addressing the practical needs of both healthcare providers and mothers.

Ergonomic Design for Enhanced Experience

The Active II/360 Water Birth Pool is designed with an emphasis on ergonomic excellence and spatial efficiency.

The pool’s keyhole shape is not only visually appealing but also provides functional benefits, supporting a variety of birthing positions and movements.

The pool includes recessed hand grips and a bull-nose shaped rim for added support and safety.

The Bespoke Water Column is seamlessly integrated, offering an elegant solution for necessary plumbing and fixtures, thus enhancing the pool’s utility and aesthetic.

Superior Material Quality

Constructed from Ficore®, a proprietary composite material exclusive to Active Birth Pools, the Active II/360 offers exceptional durability, hygiene, and safety.

The material’s highly polished, ultra-smooth surface is less slippery, crucial for ensuring safety.

The Water Column, made from the same quality material, complements the pool’s design and maintains the high hygiene standards required in healthcare environments.

User-Centric Features

The Active II/360 Water Birth Pool with the Water Column includes a labour support seat, facilitating optimal birthing positioning and comfort for the mother and a rim-level safety seat for monitoring and emergency evacuations.

The pool’s design enables free movement, which is essential for the effective use of water immersion during labour.

The Water Column adds functionality as a stable support structure and a practical utility platform.

Integrated Technological Enhancements

The pool is equipped with Multi-Colour LED Lighting and Bluetooth Sound systems, enabling the creation of a personalized and soothing environment.

These features are integral in establishing a supportive atmosphere that is conducive to natural childbirth.

Sustainability and Economic Benefits

The durable design of the Active II/360 Water Birth Pool with Bespoke Water Column makes it a sustainable and economically sound choice for healthcare facilities.

Its long-term performance and reduced replacement requirements make it an efficient investment, aligning with the economic and environmental goals of modern healthcare institutions.

Global Adoption and Acclaim

The Active II/360 Water Birth Pool with Bespoke Water Column has been recognized globally for its innovative approach to maternity care.

Its adoption by healthcare facilities worldwide is a testament to its effectiveness, reliability, and commitment to advancing water birth practices.

In conclusion, the Active II/360 Water Birth Pool with Bespoke Water Column by Active Birth Pools represents a harmonious blend of advanced design, superior material technology, and thoughtful integration of user-centric features.

It stands as a strategic and innovative choice for healthcare facilities looking to provide a superior maternity care experience, offering comfort, safety, and efficiency in a comprehensive and elegant package.

Active II/360 Water Birth Pool – Data Sheet

Place your cursor on the model below to move the image around.

To see how the Active II/360 Water Birth Pool would look in your
delivery room click on the banner below with your phone or tablet.

Delivery, Moving and Handling

Mainland UK Deliveries

Active Birth Pools delivered within the mainland UK are wrapped in protective packaging and placed in double walled boxes with corrugated sides.

The pools are delivered by our dedicated carrier on a week commencing basis.

If you require delivery on a specific date or at a specific time please contact us for a quote.

Box Size and Weight

• Active Birth Pool:  1880 x 1690 x 790mm 100 kg
• Venus Birth Pool: 1960 x 1390 x 790mm 90 kg
• Princess Birth Pool: 1640 x 1140 x 790mm 80 kg

The carrier will deliver your birth pool to the receipt and distribution point.

You’ll be responsible for moving it to the room where it will be installed.

The pool should be moved from the delivery point in its cardboard box by turning it gently on its side onto a movers dolly or two.

This will enable it to be easily moved along corridors and through doorways.  Once the pool is in the room where it will be installed carefully open the cardboard box and remove the protective packaging.

Outside Mainland UK and International Deliveries

Active Birth Pools that are delivered outside the mainland UK are wrapped in protective packaging and placed in timber framed crates with plywood sides that conform to ISPM15 and are stamped accordingly.

Crate Size and Weight

• Active II Water Birth Pool: 2050 x 1810 x 970mm 220kg
• Active 360 Water Birth Pool: 2050 x 1810 x 970mm 220kg
• Active 360 Water Birth Pool with Water Column2050 x 1810 x 970 240kg
• Venus II Water Birth Pool: 2050 x 1420 x 890mm 205kg
• Venus 360 Water Birth Pool: 2050 x 1420 x 890mm 205kg
• Venus 360 Water Birth Pool with Water Column: 2120 x 1450 x 950  205kg
• Princess II Water Birth Pool: 1670 x 1170 x 890mm 145 kg
• Princess 360 Water Birth Pool: 1670 x 1170 x 890mm 145 kg
• Princess 360 Water Birth Pool with Water Column: 1710 x 1170 x 890 165 kg

The birth pool should be unpacked from the timber crate but left in its protective packaging for moving from the delivery point to the room where it will be installed.

The pool should be gently turned on its side onto a padded movers dolly or two to  enable it to be easily moved along corridors and through doorways. It’s best to handle the pool by the rim as this is the strongest point.

Installation

When siting the water birth pool be sure to leave plenty of room around it (at least 80cm on the sides and 150-200cm in front) for midwives and attendants to move freely.

Prior to moving the birth pool into position against the wall the plumbing (taps and drainage) and electrical services should be in place ready for final connection to the pool.

Taps

Fix a 3/4″ thermostatically controlled mixer tap with a short spout on an IPS panel 25 cm above the rim of the pool (rim height 75cm).

We suggest that you consider the Rada T3 or similar as it is a digital tap that not only enables you to programme the water temperature but also the fill time.

A filling time of 20 – 25 minutes is acceptable.

Note: if you are utilising a bath/shower mixer or handheld shower be sure that the shower hose does not dangle in the pool as this is a significant infection control risk

Drainage

The pool is supplied with a bespoke 40mm pop up waste that is operated by a control that is fixed to the rim.

The waste is connected to a P Trap  and a McAlpine T25 adaptor

Height from the floor to the centre of the T25 adaptor is 11cm

From the T25 adaptor you can utilise of a wide variety of commonly available parts to connect to the pipework of the buildings drainage system.

When electrical and plumbing services are in place and ready for the final connection to the pool’s systems the pool should be moved into position and fixed to the floor.

Final connection of services can be carried out through the access panel when the pool is secured in place.

Fixing the birth pool to the floor

All feet MUST be in solid contact with the floor.

If the floor is not level or smooth be sure to adjust the feet or level the floor so that all of the feet are in firm contact with the floor and there is no rocking or movement.

The bottom flange of the outer panel should be in contact with the floor but is not the primary support structure of the pool and must not bear the full weight of the filled birth pool.

The water birth pool is supplied with 3 x 100 mm x 30 mm fixing brackets.

You’ll find the brackets taped to the pool just inside the access panel that can be opened with a 10mm Allen Key.

It is essential these brackets are securely fixed to the floor with suitable hardware to immobilise the pool and prevent it from moving when empty.

Failure to secure the pool to the floor with the fixing brackets will endanger the end user and VOID the guarantee.

Locating and fixing the brackets

Step 1: All Models:

Mark the central position of the water birth pool on the wall that it is being fitted on.

SStep 2:  Active II Water Birth Pool – front fixing bracket

Measure 1330 mm from the centre point on the wall and mark this as the point to locate the bracket so that the long flat piece is projecting away from the wall and the raised short section faces forward into the room.

Fix the bracket to the floor using suitable hardware.

Front bracket right centre – Back bracket lower left and right

Step 2: Venus II Water Birth Pool

– front fixing bracket

Measure 1330 mm from the centre point on the wall and mark this as the point to locate the bracket so that the long flat piece is projecting away from the wall and the raised short section faces forward into the room.

Fix the bracket to the floor using suitable hardware.

Front bracket right centre – Back bracket lower left and rightt

Step 2: Princess II Water Birth Pool – front fixing bracket

Measure 1020 mm from the centre point on the wall and mark this as the point to locate the bracket so that the long flat piece is projecting away from the wall and raised short section faces forward into the room.

Fix the bracket to the floor using suitable hardware.

Front bracket right centre – Back bracket upper left

Step 3: All Models

Place the birth pool at least 60 mm away from the rear wall before moving it onto the bracket and flush against the wall.

Push the birth pool towards the wall so that the flange of the pool slides under the bracket.

This secures the front of the pool to the floor.

Step 4: All Models – back fixing bracket

The 2^nd fixing bracket should be fixed in position on the bottom flange of the pool below the access panel as indicated in the images above.

You will see that a hole has been drilled in the flange. Line the bracket up with this hole. You can fix the pool to the floor with a raw plug and suitable hardware to guarantee that it is secure.

The long flat piece should be fixed to the floor with suitable hardware so that the short section is holding the flange securely to the floor.

Step 5: All Models

Seal the water birth pool to the floor and wall using a suitable sealant to prevent ingress of water and dirt.

Installation 360 Models

Place the water birth pool in the exact location and orientation that you want it.

Mark the floor at the centre of the curve at the front of the pool.

Move the pool away.

Measure 6cm away from the mark you made and fix the front bracket in place.

Continue by following instructions above.

Water Column Installation 

Fixing the column to the floor

1. Remove the access panel using a hex key and place it off to one side
2. Locate the water column in the centre of the pool at least 25mm away from the back rim
3. Mark the four anchor points on the floor and take the column away
4. Drill four holes suitable for the hardware you will be using to anchor the pool to the floor. We recommend expansion bolts or similar fixings.
5. If you are using expansion bolts place them in the holes and align the water column accordingly.
6. Before tightening the bolts apply a generous amount of silicone to the underside of the flange.
7. Tighten the bolts fully.

Fixtures and Fittings

The Water Column is designed to accept a variety of plumbing fixtures and associated fittings such as hand rails.

Installers will find that there is plenty of room inside to accommodate valves and pipework.

The front and sides of the column have been reinforced with 18mm thick plywood.

Ficore is an extremely hard material that is easy to drill provided you place strip of masking tape on the surface and use an HSS drill bit or wood hole saw to make the hole.

We suggest that you use a 120mm spout and fix it to the column at least 150mm above the rim of the pool.

The tap can  be fixed above the spout as shown in the image above.

Handrails and/or handheld showers can be fixed to the sides of the column on the flat sections.

Tap shown is a Rada Sense Bath/Shower  T3 DMV

Multi-Colour LED Lighting

Installation

Connect the light to a circuit breaker, then to the power supply.

The system should be protected by a 6 AMP RCD with 30 -32 MA Sensitivity.

The LED is transformed down to 12 volts and has a power rating of 2.5 watts.

A separate means of Isolation should be provided for future maintenance.

Operating voltage 220/230 volts – 50/60 hertz

Operating instructions

The system is operated by the control pad on the rim of the pool.

To activate the system press the button once.

The white light will come on.

To choose another colour continue to press the button and the system will cycle through the range of colours – light blue, blue, purple, magenta, red, pink, orange, yellow, apple green and green.

To turn the system off press and hold the button down for 2 seconds.

The light should be switched off when the pool is not in use.

Bluetooth Sound System

Connect the factory fitted bluetooth sound system to a circuit breaker and then to the power supply.

The system is always on standby waiting for users to pair and connect.

It’s operated directly from the users mobile phone or bluetooth enabled device and has no controls of its own.

N.B. If there is more than one birth pool with bluetooth sound being installed in the same unit you will need to fit a remote switch to enable the users to turn the system on and off.

This is to prevent people accidentally activating the system instead of the one in their room.

Transducer speaker

• Frequency Range 20Hz-20KHz.
• Maximum Power Output 50W at 4 Ohm.

Bluetooth Amplifier

• Transmission Range 5m to 10m.
• Maximum Power Output 2ch X 20W.
• Operating voltage 220/230 volts – 50/60 hertz
• Transformed Voltage 12 Volt DC / 3 amp.
• Waterproof Rating IP67.

Cleaning and Care:

Safety comes 1st!

Active Birth Pools are Rated No.1 for water safety and infection control standards.

This is because the material we use (Ficore) is 5 x harder than other materials and is immune to the effects of disinfection with 10,000ppm hypo-chlorite.

Seamless one-piece construction and the absence of surface mounted metal work deny micro-organisms the environment they need to propagate.

Active Birth Pools Cleaning and Disinfection Guidelines

This is a two-step procedure – first cleaning of the pool and surround, then disinfection of the pool and surround.

1. Prior to emptying the pool remove debris and larger particles from the water with a sieve to prevent it from blocking or obstructing the outlet.

2. Use the standard infection control precautions (plastic apron, disposable gloves and eye protection) when cleaning the pool. Ensure the area is well ventilated.

3. Cleaning – use a non-abrasive detergeant with non-abrasive sponge or cloth to thoroughly clean the pool. Ensure the tap is cleaned first, so as not to transfer micro-organisms from the “dirty” pool area to the cleaner tap region. Rinse well with warm water.

4. Disinfecting – use chlorclean or similar hypochlorite disinfectant following the directions on the packet for mixing the solution to the correct concentration for disinfecting the birth pool and surround.  Do not use bleach as it is highly corrosive and could cause damage to the fittings.

5. Apply the solution to the tap and spout prior to disinfecting the pool.

6. There are 3 methods for disinfecting the pool that are commonly used in hospitals:

1) Fill the pool with cold water and add the requisite amount of disinfectant – leave for ten minutes.

The advantage of this method is that it is 100% effective but wasteful of water, time consuming and uses a large amount of disinfectant

2) Make up 2-3 litres of solution and pour it around the inside of the rim. Then use a new disposable mop or cloth to spread the disinfectant over the surface of the pool. Leave for ten minutes.

The advantage of this method is that it is economic in terms of time and cost but relies upon the person carrying out the task to ensure that 100% of the pools surface is disinfected.

3) Fill a spray bottle with disinfectant and thoroughly spray the surface of the pool and surround. Then use a new disposable mop or cloth to spread the disinfectant over the surface of the pool. Leave for ten minutes.

The advantage of this method is that it is economic in terms of time and cost but relies upon the person carrying out the task to ensure that 100% of the pools surface is disinfected

7. Open the drain outlet and empty the pool of the disinfectant.

8. Using cold water, rinse the tap then the pool to remove all traces of the disinfectant, to prevent any residue being left on the pool surface.

9. Dry the entire surface of the pool using a new cloth or disposable mop head.

10. Keep the drain outlet closed when not in use.

If you are duty flushing the taps with hot water/steam add a few inches of cold water to the pool first.

Damage resulting from higher water temperatures, steam cleaning or use of products not approved by Active Birth Pools will not be covered by our guarantee.

Protocols from hospitals using Active Birth Pools.

• Water Safety Guidelines
• Protocols: Sheffield Teaching Hospital  A must read
• Protocols: Watford General Hospital
• Protocols: Basingstoke and North Hampshire NHS Trust
• Protocols: Nottingham Hospital Trust
• Protocols: Buckinghamshire Healthcare
• Protocols: Northern Health and Social Care Trust
• Protocols: NHS Forth Valley
• Protocols: NHS General
• Water Birth Safety Initiative:  Essential reading

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There are manual handling issues and risks associated with water birth pools that affect both mothers and midwives.

Most of the risks stem from the design and equipping of the water birth pools themselves and this is where this article will focus.

These issues concern rim mounted fixtures and fittings, emergency evacuations, midwives comfort and support, and mothers getting in and out of the pool.

If you look at our birthing pools from the early 1990’s (above) you’ll notice the vertical skirting panels and narrow rims.

This design has serious manual handling issues which we resolved in 1995 with the help of Health Service Ergonomist Sue Hignett and the midwives at Nottingham City Hospital.

The problem is that the pool forms an obstacle between the mother and the midwife. Midwives are not supported or safeguarded and cannot sit closely to the mother in comfort.

They are forced to sit away from the pool with their legs splayed apart and then lean forward to be closer to the mother.

This creates the ideal physical dynamic that causes lower back pain (a common complaint from midwives attending water births).

In addition, the narrow rims are not comfortable for resting on as pressure is concentrated in a small area of the forearm.

To make matters worse these birthing pools:

–  make it more difficult for mothers to get into the pool necessitating  the need for large step units which put both mothers and midwives at risk.

– and more difficult for midwives to facilitate emergency evacuations.

The photo above tells a completely different story and clearly demonstrates why midwives say that our water birth pools are the most comfortable and user-friendly.

The concave skirting panel is contoured to the shape of the pool to maximise space under the rim.

The extra-wide rim has a bull-nosed shape edge for added comfort and support.

Midwives sit, fully supported in comfort with their legs well under the pool and forearms resting gently on the broad rim.

The unobstructed rim allows the midwives to move easily around the circumference of the pool.

Getting into the pool

The simple act of getting into the pool is one of the most misunderstood aspects relating to the use water birth pools.

The reason that some water birth pool suppliers offer multi-step units with handrails is because their pools have narrow rims.

The truth is that multi-step units are dangerous and in the case of Active Birth Pools with extra-wide rims unnecessary as the photos below clearly demonstrate.

With the help of Manual Handling  and Ergonomic Design  experts we designed a simple, safe way for mothers to get into our pools.

The distinctive extra-wide, bull-nosed shaped rim is relatively low making it perfect for mothers to sit on and gently swivel into the water.

There is no climbing – mothers are grounded at all times and safeguarded from risk.

All women no matter what their shape or size will find it exceptionally easy to get into our pools.

Mothers don’t even think about it – they move instinctively and naturally lower themselves into the water.

And midwives will be safeguarded from the risk associated with physically supporting mothers as they climbs up the steps.

To put this in perspective:

The average height of our pools is 75cm – about the same height as a desk or dining table.

Our 15cm high single step makes the height of the pool  60cm – the same height as an ordinary bathtub.

You don’t need a big step unit to get into your bath at home, do you?

Emergency Evacuations

Active Birth Pools give midwives safe, practical options for dealing with emergencies.

The extra-wide rim and internal seats of our pools allow midwives to facilitate emergency evacuations in a way that is birth practical and safe.

Midwives can situate the mother an internal seat and gently raise her with the help of the buoyancy that water provides up to the rim and onto a trolley.

Or, use a net that is specifically designed for this purpose.

Manual Handling advisors may insist that women are evacuated from the birth pool with a hoist and that this facility is provided for.

Active Birth Pools are the only pools on the market designed to accommodate portable hoists should the need arise.

For full details about how Active Birth Pools enable midwives to facilitate safe emergency evacuations including protocols from NHS Hospitals please go to this page.

Rim Mounted Fixtures and Fittings

Many water birth pools have an array of rim mounted fixtures and fittings including taps, spouts, handheld showers and hand grips (similar to those shown on the whirlpool bath below).

Not only do these fittings present an unacceptable infection control risk, but a signifiant health & safety and manual handling risk as well.

They form an obstruction that denies midwives freedom of movement and unencumbered access around the perimeter of the pool.

Most importantly there is a considerable risk of mothers hitting their head on the spout or injuring themselves on the protruding metal work.

If you look at our new Active II Water Birth Pool (above) you’ll notice how the rim is free of potentially dangerous fixtures and fittings.

The handgrips are set into a recess in line with the rim and bonded into the fabric of the pool to deny bacteria the environment they need to grow.

The taps are mounted on an IPS panel with the spout 25cm above the rim of the pool

The distinctive ‘keyhole’ shape channel at the back of the pool contains the plumbing making it impossible for the mother to hit her head on the spout.

Dealing with emergencies

It’s easy for mothers to get into our pools

Designed to optimise safety, negate risk and deliver safer birthing environments

Since its establishment in 1987, Active Birth Pools has been at the forefront of designing and supplying water birth pools.

Our commitment to ergonomic, safe, and high-quality birthing pools has made us a preferred choice for healthcare facilities globally.

Sustainable Materials and Production

Active Birth Pools emphasize sustainability through our use of Ficore® composite, a material known for its longevity, durability, and resistance to chemicals and bacteria.

With a life expectancy of over 25 years, it surpasses the durability of materials typically used in birthing pool manufacturing.

The pools are handcrafted in England by skilled craftsmen, ensuring reduced carbon footprint and support for local employment.

Midwives at the Royal Berkshire Hospital celebrate the 25th anniversary of their water birth facility. This Venus Water Birth Pool supplied in 1992 was the worlds first hospital grade specially designed water birth pool.

Product Sustainability

The design of Active Birth Pools focuses on durability and longevity, aiming to reduce waste and resource use over time.

The high insulation factor of Ficore® and the double-wall construction ensure better heat retention, reducing energy consumption for maintaining water temperature.

Ergonomic and User-Centered Design

In collaboration with midwives, obstetricians, and ergonomics experts, we have developed designs that cater to the comfort of mothers and healthcare professionals.

This approach aligns with human-centered design principles and contributes to the wellbeing and safety of users, enhancing the overall birthing experience.

Midwives at the `Bronte Birth Centre celebrate the opening of their water birth facility in their new Venus Pool

Economic Benefits

Active Birth Pools are cost-effective for healthcare facilities due to their durability and low maintenance needs.

They also contribute to reduced hospital stays and interventions, leading to economic savings for healthcare systems.

Social Responsibility

Safety and customer satisfaction are paramount in the design of these pools, addressing the needs of mothers, babies, and healthcare workers.

The positive feedback from a global clientele underscores the our commitment to quality and safety.

Conclusion

Active Birth Pools showcase a deep commitment to sustainability with their durable materials, ergonomic designs, and efficient production practices.

Our approach benefits the environment and promotes economic and social sustainability in healthcare.

The pools are guaranteed for life, outperforming others in the market in terms of safety, hygiene, and user satisfaction.

They are built to last for decades, saving up to £20,000 over the pool’s life due to their extended lifespan and reduced maintenance and energy costs.

Active Birth Pools not only offer financial savings but also reduce environmental impact through less waste and efficient use of resources.

They have become a favored choice in maternity units, often influencing mothers’ choice of facility.

Midwives praise the pools for their comfort and safety, and hospitals report that mothers using these pools experience easier, more straightforward births, leading to reduced hospital stays and further economic and environmental savings.

In summary, Active Birth Pools stand out as the most sustainable option in the market, significantly contributing to the normalisation and empowerment of the birthing process.

Why Active Birth Pools are the No. 1 choice world-wide

Catalogue, videos and plans

 

Back in the mid-80s, we embarked on a journey alongside midwives, mothers, obstetricians, infection control specialists, and manual handling experts.

Together, we crafted the world’s very first hospital-grade water birth pool with meticulous attention to every detail.

Since then, we’ve continued to refine our designs, enhance our materials, and elevate our manufacturing and engineering capabilities.

This evolution has given rise to water birth pools that not only prioritize safety but also align perfectly with the needs of both mothers and midwives.

The Building Better Healthcare Awards judges put it succinctly, stating that the harmonious blend of evidence-based, user-centric, ergonomic design, specialized materials, and custom manufacturing has resulted in water birth pools that stand in a class of their own.

Our unwavering dedication lies in offering intelligently designed birthing pools that deliver unparalleled safety, remarkable value, and outstanding performance, all while remaining incredibly practical, cost-effective, and environmentally sustainable.

At our core is a genuine passion for design and quality, fueled by an unwavering commitment to enhance the experience of labor and birth for midwives, mothers, and babies alike.

We’re proud to have supplied countless water birth pools to hospitals across the globe.

Our collaborations with end-users, specialists, and manufacturers have driven us to continuously develop and improve our capabilities.

Every Active Birth Pool is meticulously handcrafted to order in England by highly skilled artisans who take immense pride in their work and hold themselves to the highest standards of excellence.

Our design process takes into account the delicate interplay between mothers, midwives, and the birth pool.

We’ve embraced evidence-based, user-centric, ergonomic design principles to create water birth pools that are not only supremely comfortable but also effortlessly practical and user-friendly.

The intricate and inviting forms of our pools are designed to captivate both the senses and emotions.

Each curve, each contour serves a purpose, where form elegantly merges with aesthetic utility.

Through the seamless, one-piece fabrication process in Ficore®, we’ve revolutionized the concept of the birth pool.

This innovation has given birth to pools that seamlessly combine elegance, practicality, and ease of use.

The exceptional qualities of Ficore® empower us to produce water birth pools that excel in performance, value, and safety beyond measure.

Our deep understanding of the childbirth process and our commitment to midwives’ needs have driven us to design birthing pools that actively protect midwives and mothers from the potential risks associated with water birth.

We’re acutely aware of the potential for birth pools to harbor harmful bacteria.

In response, we’ve introduced a range of innovative features that not only mitigate risk but also amplify safety to the highest degree.

Your peace of mind and safety are at the heart of everything we do.

Active Birth Pools from a midwives perspective

Active Birth Pools from a mothers perspective

If you’re looking for a water birth pool we’re uniquely qualified to be of service

The history of water birth and the development of specialised water birth pools is a remarkable story of innovation and transformation in childbirth practices, driven by the insights of obstetrician Michel Odent and the design expertise of Keith Brainin.

Michel Odent’s groundbreaking work in the field of water birth began in the late 1970s at a state hospital near Paris.

Odent believed that childbirth had become overly medicalized and sought a more natural approach.

He introduced a pool in the hospital to ease the pain of labor, leading to some babies being born in the water.

Michel Odent with his pool in the maternity unit in Pithiviers, France

This innovative approach offered a more comfortable and less stressful birthing experience for mothers, with warm water helping to relax muscles, reduce stress, and enhance blood circulation.

Odent’s work demonstrated a reduction in the need for interventions like epidurals and episiotomies, aligning with many parents’ desires for a minimally invasive childbirth experience.

His observations and clinical experiences suggested that water birth provided a gentle transition for babies, mirroring the amniotic fluid environment​​.

“When asked about the history of birthing pools in hospitals, I mention the day when Keith Brainin realised that special bath tubs might be designed and commercialised to meet the needs of labouring women.”   Michel Odent

1989 – Sheila Kitzinger and Ethel Burns raise money to have the first specially designed water birth pool installed in an NHS Hospital at the John Radcliffe, Oxford

Building on Odent’s pioneering work, Keith Brainin, founder and director of Active Birth Pools, developed the world’s first specially designed water birth pools.

Starting in 1987, Brainin and his team focused on design, engineering, and manufacture to develop a water birth pool that excelled in quality, functionality, and durability.

Judges at the Building Better Healthcare Awards said that, “Active Birth Pools are the pinnacle of water birth pool design and development – an incomparable combination of design, materials and manufacturing” 

The Active Birth Pool was designed with ergonomic principles to support natural childbirth postures and provide comfort for the mother.

Features like extra-wide rims, integrated handrails, and specially designed labor support and safety seats were included to enhance safety and functionality.

The use of Ficore composite for construction ensured a harder, more chemical-resistant, and warm-to-the-touch surface that retains heat efficiently.

Keith Brainin with Sheena Byron and midwives in the Lotus Birth Centre, Royal London Hospital 2018

Additionally, the pools were equipped with features like chromotherapy LED lighting and Bluetooth sound systems, allowing mothers to personalize their birthing environment.

These innovations in water birth pool design have significantly contributed to the safety, comfort, and natural approach to childbirth​​.

Both Michel Odent’s clinical insights and Keith Brainin’s design innovations have played a crucial role in transforming childbirth practices, emphasizing the importance of a natural, holistic approach to labor and delivery.

Their contributions have been instrumental in making water birth a viable and increasingly popular option for expectant mothers worldwide.

Fluid modernities: the birthing pool in late twentieth-century Britain

Catalogue, information, videos and plans

Mothers tell us that, ‘they love our water birth pools’.