New mothers and babies could be at risk of contracting Legionnaires' disease from some pre-heated birthing pools, the government has warned.
Birthing pools filled in advance of the expected date of delivery are dangerous and are to be avoided, the warning from Public Health England states.
In 2014, a new born baby in England was found to have contracted Legionnaires' disease following a home birth in a pre-heated birthing pool.
Legionnaires' is a serious and sometimes fatal lung infection caused by inhaling the Legionella bacteria when suspended in water droplets.
Symptoms can materialise as rapidly as after two days after exposure and are usually flu-like, such as coughing, shortness of breath and chest pains.
Legionella bacteria grow in stagnant water between 20C and 45C, especially where nutrient rich rust, sludge, scale, sediment and algae are present.
If the water temperature of a birthing pool has been maintained for an extended time before birth by the use of a heater and circulation pump, this allows for conditions where Legionalla bacteria can grow.
Traditional birthing pools are filled with water once the pregnant woman goes into labour are considered to be safe. These come with disposable liners and the water is not kept warm using a heater.
Fixed birthing pools in NHS units are also considered safe as they are subject to stringent infection control procedures which prevent Legionella growing in the water and system.
Pregnant women are advised to discuss with their midwives if they are planning to use a birthing pool at home and have any concerns.
Midwives will be able to talk through the birth plan and give advice on how best to keep both mother and baby safe.
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