Birth Tub/Pool Rental FAQ

We are the only current American RENTAL outlet for Birth Pool in a Box. You may rent or buy directly from 9 Months & Beyond, LLC.

What is the difference between the Aquadoula and the Birth Pool in a Box?
The Aquadoula tub is a soft-sided rigid walled tub with heater and liner. It is the original portable spa developed for labor and birth. The Birth Pool in a Box is an inflatable tub used in Europe since 2005. It was designed with the feedback of midwives and birthing women. You should use which ever tub most appeals to you.

How do I use the tub during labor and/or birth?
Use the birth tub to find the most comfortable position for labor and birth. The water takes the pressure off your wrists and knees in kneeling or all fours positions. Water allows you to float and go completely limp during contractions. Using a birth tub does not mean you will give birth in the tub. Water during labor offers benefits of it’s own. However, there are many benefits for mom and baby to birthing in the water. See www.waterbirth.org for articles on the benefits.

Is a birth tub easy to set up?
OF COURSE! Our tubs can be set up in 20 minutes or less, but may take more time to fill depending on the size of your water heater. Your tub will come with an instruction booklet and we are available for “tech support” by phone or email. It is a good idea if someone besides mom has read the instruction booklet before labor begins.

Do the tubs have heaters?
The Aquadoula has a heater in the tub wall. The Birth Pool in a Box does not. You should keep the pool covered (with the provided cover) if you are not in it to retain heat. In the case of a long labor, the BPIAB may need to have some hot water added.

How deep should the water be?
The water should be at least 18” deep to achieve buoyancy, providing a significant level of pain relief. It is also important that the baby remains underwater until deliberately brought to the surface. The Aquadoula is 24” deep and the BPIAB is 26” with a water depth of 23”. Do not settle for a “kiddie pool” that may not be deep enough or have sturdy enough sides.

When should I fill up the tub?
Fill the tub when mama says to! Seriously, you may want to fill the Aquadoula when labor begins, or at least set it up and start filling. You may want to wait until contractions are closer together if using the BPIAB. You may want to ask your midwife for her thoughts on when to set up and when to fill.

How much does it cost?
There is a $100 deposit to hold your spot on the calendar. Your deposit can be used toward the balance due at 8 months. If you rent at 8 months or later, your payment is due in full at the time of rental. The Aquadoula is $300 and the Birth Pool in a Box is $200. This includes the tub, birth kit, one way shipping and rental support and materials. We are also happy to speak with your care provider or doula if they have questions or concerns.

Are there any late fees?
There are no late fees. We know you have no control over your baby’s birthday. However, if you do not call or email within 5 days of your baby’s birth, a daily fee will be charged until contact is made. I expect it back to me within 7-10 days (2 weeks if out of state) of you baby’s birth. Please return it promptly so the next family can experience the power of water labor/birth.

When will I receive my tub?
Your tub will arrive on your doorstep on the 38th week of pregnancy. If you have cycles or previous birth history that would change when you would need your tub to arrive, please let us know.

What else do I need?
A clean, new “suitable for drinking” water hose, any accessories you desire to use such as a pool seat or pillow. If you are interested in accessories, let us know and we will try to help you find what you are searching for.

What do I do when I am finished with the tub?
When you are finished, please call and let us know how the birth went. Have SOMEONE ELSE (aka not mom) clean the tub per included instructions. Pack up the tub (again not the resting mom) and return it to us by mail or personal scheduled delivery to our office. We also sanitize each pool and shared equipment when it is returned to us.

With the BPIAB what is the risk of puncturing the pool?
Every tub is tested before leaving the factory. It is important that you take precautions to minimize risk of puncture. If a tub is damaged while in your possession, you will be billed for the replacement. Here are a few reminders:

  • Keep pets away from the pool, both in storage and when inflated.
  • Prepare the floor where the pool will be, i.e. sand, vacuum, sweep thoroughly to remove sharp objects or surfaces.
  • If the pool is going on a floor that might have jagged edges, be sure to cover the floor with a plastic sheet or cloth first.
  • Take care when handling the pool. We advise against moving the pool between rooms when inflated to avoid unnecessary wear & tear.
  • Remove jewelry prior to using the pool.

In the unlikely event of a puncture, BPIAB is designed with 3 independent air chambers so that if one chamber punctures, 2/3 of the height of the sides remains, causing considerably fewer problems than if a single-chambered pool is punctured.

How long does the BPIAB take to inflate?
8-12 minutes!

What’s the best thing about waterbirth?
It feels good for mom and creates a gentle experience for baby!

*Thanks to Barbara Harper and Waterbirth International for help in developing this FAQ.