Being a birth partner involves much more than filling the pool. From learning the equipment to offering steady support and handling cleanup, here’s how to prepare for a meaningful role on the big day.

Your birth pool may be ready—but can your water heater keep up? Learn how to assess your hot water supply, estimate filling time, and prepare a practical plan before labor.

Thinking about buying a secondhand birth pool? Before purchasing, learn how to check the model, condition, previous use, and included accessories—and which supplies you should replace before your birth.

Planning a waterbirth? Learn practical ways to keep your birth pool warm during labor, reduce heat loss, monitor water temperature, and prepare your setup ahead of time for a smoother, more comfortable waterbirth experience.

Wondering what to wear during a waterbirth? From swimsuits and nursing bras to wearing nothing at all, here's how to choose comfortable clothing for laboring and giving birth in a birth pool.