After being 4cms dilated for a few days with very minor, disorganised contractions, my waters broke midday on Thursday 24th July.  Gradually the contractions became more intense and by the evening I was using all my focus on them.  At around midnight the midwife was called and when she got here we started filling up the pool.  It was marvellous!  Easy to fill with the hose and very comfortable. 

We had no trouble getting the right temperature and didn't run out of hot water as we are on gas.  Between contractions I could effortlessly move around and during them I tended to slump over the side and spread my legs down.  I was very fortunate to have three people giving me Reiki during my contractions and this position made it easy for them to lean over me and the pool to do it.  But they got sore knees! Ha! 

I got out of the pool for the delivery and after 6 or 7 contractions he was born.  The time was 04:27am Friday 25th July, 8lbs 3oz and only 5 stitches!  (compared to two hours of stitching with my first birth, and she was 6lbs 5oz). 

The pool held its heat for 4-5 hours with only a couple of extra hot water bucket top ups.  Even later in the day the water was still warm.  I really think that everyone should have a pool for labour, the ease of movement and weightlessness is incredable relief!