The mother has much greater ease and freedom to move spontaneously and to change position to assist the descent of the baby. Reduction of pressure on the abdomen. 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. Helps mother to conserve her energy. Promotes deeper relaxation.
Water relaxes the pelvic floor muscles.
Water stimulates the touch and temperature nerve fibers in the skin. It blocks impulses from the pain fibers, known as the Gate Theory of Pain. Immersion is often more effective and safer than an epidural. Facilitates a dysfunctional labor. Water can be an effective way to stimulate dilation of the cervix when the mother has difficulty progressing into the active stage of labor.