In the past, mothers' experiences of labor and delivery were that of conventional means.  Now, though, a new method is being introduced.  This is what we call the water birth.

From the name itself, water birth is the process of giving birth in a tub of warm water.  If you are thinking of trying this method, you can either opt to labor in the water and get out for delivery or stay in the water for both the labor and the delivery. 

Water birth, as attested to by midwives and some obstetricians, is generally acceptable because it reduces fetal complications.  Its potential benefits for the mother and the baby are as follows:

Benefits for the mother:

Water is soothing, comforting, relaxing.

In the later stages of labor, the water seems to increase the woman's energy.

The buoyancy lessens her body weight, allows free movement and new positioning.
 
Buoyancy promotes more efficient uterine contractions and better blood circulation, resulting in better oxygenation of the uterine muscles, less pain for the mother, and more oxygen for the baby.

Immersion in water often helps lower high blood pressure caused by anxiety.

Water seems to alleviate stress-related hormones, allowing the mother's body to produce endorphins, which are pain-inhibitors.

Water causes the perineum to become more elastic and relaxed, which reduces the incidence and severity of tearing and the need for an episiotomy and stitches.

As the laboring women relaxes physically she is able to relax mentally, concentrating her efforts inward on the birth process.

The water provides a sense of privacy, which releases inhibitions, anxiety, and fears.

Benefits for Baby:

Provides a similar environment as the amniotic sac.

Eases the stress of the birth, providing security.

On the average, we may conclude that water birth is a good method for labor and delivery.  However, it is also important to take note that water birth is not advisable for all cases of pregnancy. 

These conditions include: 

(1) having herpes;
(2) having a maternal infection;
(3) having multiples;
(4) having a pre-term labor;
(5) having toxemia or preeclampsia.