New state-of-the-art birthing pool makes a splash at UHNM

Expecting mothers can look forward to a more comfortable and relaxing birthing experience thanks to the installation of a new birthing pool at University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust (UHNM).

A brand-new, state-of-the-art active birthing pool is now available to pregnant women deemed low-risk on the Royal Stoke University Hospital’s Midwife Birth Centre (MBC).

The new birthing pool replaces the original pool which was installed when the Royal Stoke’s Maternity Centre was built in 2009.

Sophie Moss, a midwife of six years on the MBC who helped oversee the new installation, said: “Our new active birthing pool replaces the Centre’s original pool, which whilst helping bring countless babies into the world over the years, is now starting to show its age.

“Water births have several perceived benefits, and we’re delighted with this new, brighter, and fresher pool, which will help us to continue to provide the best possible birthing experience for expectant mothers and their loved ones.

“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.”

New parents Sarah and George Mason were the first patients to use the pool, welcoming son Hugo into the world on 27 February. 

Sarah said "We felt so lucky to be the first people to use the new birthing pool. It was a magical experience and felt like such a natural and empowering way to give birth. The pool provided lots of space and comfort, the temperature was perfect, and to be able to lift my new-born baby out of the water was a moment I'll forever cherish.

"We couldn't of wished for better support and guidance from the midwives during labour. The whole experience was truly incredible."

Laura Gacek, Deputy Directorate Manager for Maternity, Neonatal and Gynaecology Services at UHNM added: “We’re really proud of these new state-of-the-art facilities at UHNM. Our amazing team of midwives work hard to continuously develop and improve maternity services that put the needs of the women, their baby and loved ones at the heart of the quality care they deliver.”