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Are Water Births Safe? What the Evidence Says and How We Keep You Safe in NYC

November 24, 2025

Are Water Births Safe

Many expectant parents are drawn to the idea of water births for their calming, natural approach to labor; however, they always have this concern: are water births safe? While laboring in water is generally considered safe for low-risk pregnancies, delivering in water is a more nuanced decision. It requires careful evaluation of individual circumstances. 

At Holistic Birthing Center NYC, we believe in providing our clients with thorough, personalized care. And with that in mind, in this article, we'll break down the benefits, potential risks, and safety protocols that ensure water births remain a safe and empowering option for those who choose it.

Key Takeaways:


  • ▶ Laboring in water can provide significant pain relief and comfort.
  • ▶ Water birth is generally safe for many, but it comes with a set of guidelines to ensure safety.
  • ▶ Our Holistic Birthing Center NYC team follows strict protocols to make water births as safe as possible.

What Do We Mean by "Water Birth"? 

A water birth refers to a birthing method where the mother is submerged in water during labor and delivery. While laboring in water is quite common, giving birth in water is a distinct process where the baby is born while still in the water. Some birthing centers, like Holistic Birthing Center NYC, offer water birth as part of their natural birth options, providing a birth pool designed to enhance comfort and relaxation.

During the first stage of labor, immersion in warm water helps with pain relief, reduces stress, and promotes relaxation. However, giving birth in water (the second stage) is a choice that requires careful evaluation of safety and risk factors.

Water births do not increase the risk of complications for most low-risk pregnancies, but the decision should always be made with guidance from qualified midwives or obstetricians. Whether at a birth center or at home, preparing for water immersion during labor means paying attention to water temperature and environment for an optimal birth experience.

Water Birth Statistics: What the Data Shows 

Research shows that water births come with several benefits and risks, and understanding both is essential when planning your birth method. Here's what the data reveals:

Key Findings:


  • ▶ Lower Rates of Postpartum Hemorrhage and Severe Perineal Tears: Studies show that women who give birth in water have a lower risk of severe postpartum bleeding and perineal tears compared to land births. This means fewer interventions and a smoother recovery for many.
  • ▶ Neonatal Complications: Babies born in water have similar health outcomes as those born on land. There is no significant increase in problems like infections or the need for NICU care.
  • ▶ Slightly Higher Rates of Umbilical Cord Avulsion: There is a small risk of the umbilical cord avulsing (or tearing) in water births, with about 1.5% of water births experiencing this, compared to 0.5% in land births. However, this is rare and generally not a major concern with proper care.

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Outcome Water Births Land Births
Postpartum Hemorrhage 20% lower Higher
Severe Perineal Tears 10-15% lower Higher
Neonatal Complications No Significant Difference No Significant Difference
Umbilical Cord Avulsion 1.5% (slightly higher) 0.5%

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Comparative Table: Water Births vs. Land Births

Water births offer many benefits, like lower rates of tears and postpartum bleeding. While there is a slightly higher risk of umbilical cord avulsion, it's still a safe option for many women when done in the right setting.

All the Benefits of Water Birth 

Water birth offers many advantages for both mother and baby, creating a calming environment that supports the natural process of labor. Here are some key benefits:

Pain Relief


  • ▶ Warm water immersion helps reduce pain perception by relaxing muscles and easing tension during contractions.
  • ▶ Many women experience a significant reduction in the need for analgesia, such as epidurals or pain medications, when laboring in water.
  • ▶ The soothing effect of warm water makes contractions feel less intense, promoting a more comfortable birth experience.

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Relaxation


  • ▶ Floating in water offers a sense of weightlessness, helping the birthing person relax and reduce stress.
  • ▶ The calm environment of immersion in water promotes a sense of peacefulness and control, which can reduce anxiety.
  • ▶ A relaxed state can support the natural rhythm of labor, helping the body work more efficiently.

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Mobility


  • ▶ Water birth provides increased freedom of movement, which aids labor progression.
  • ▶ Mothers can shift positions easily in the water, whether kneeling, squatting, or floating, helping the baby move down the birth canal.
  • ▶ The ability to change positions in the water helps the birthing person stay comfortable and in control, potentially reducing the duration of labor.

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The benefits of water birth go beyond pain relief. From helping the mother stay relaxed to providing increased mobility and a comfortable environment for labor, water birth is an option many families choose for a natural, empowering birth experience.

Are Water Births Safe, or Dangerous?

Water birth has become an increasingly popular option for those seeking a more natural, comfortable birthing experience. But is it safe? Let's break it down by exploring what reputable medical organizations and recent studies say about water birth and its safety.

What ACOG and AAP Say About Safety

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) offer some guidance on immersion in water during labor.

  • ▶ ACOG supports laboring in water but cautions against underwater birth. They highlight concerns about water aspiration and infections, stressing the need for skilled professionals and proper protocols in place.
  • ▶ AAP also supports laboring in water but raises concerns about neonatal risks like infections, especially when water quality isn't closely monitored.

What Midwifery Organizations and Recent Reviews Say

  • ▶ ACNM supports water birth for low-risk pregnancies, citing its benefits, like pain relief and fewer interventions.
  • ▶ A 2024 meta-analysis found that water births for low-risk women don't increase major risks but emphasize safety protocols for the best outcomes (PubMed)

Putting It Together for Families

When deciding whether to give birth in the water, it's important to weigh the benefits vs. risks in low-risk pregnancies. For many, the warmth of the water provides comfort and pain relief, making water birth a safe option. However, it is essential to follow safety guidelines and have a trained professional overseeing the process.

Benefit Risk
Pain relief with immersion in water Water aspiration during birth
Increased mobility during labor Increased risk of umbilical cord avulsion
Lower rates of perineal tears Infection risks in unclean water
Less likely to need interventions Limited research on long-term outcomes

Is a Water Birth Easier? 

A water birth can feel easier for some, but this depends on the individual and the stage of labor. The warmth of the water can help reduce pain, and the ability to move freely in the water often makes labor more manageable. Many find the comfort of the tub of warm water offers significant pain relief and reduces the need for medication.

However, "easier" is subjective. Some women may find immersion during labor incredibly soothing, while others may prefer a traditional birth on land. If complications arise, leaving the tub may be recommended to ensure a safe delivery.

Who Is a Good Candidate? 

A water birth works best for low-risk, healthy pregnancies. Ideal candidates include:

  • ▶ Term pregnancies (37 weeks or more)
  • ▶ Singleton babies (one baby, not twins)
  • ▶ Head-down babies (the baby is in the right position)

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However, water birth might not be recommended if:

  • ▶ You have a high-risk pregnancy (such as preeclampsia)
  • ▶ You have a fever, heavy meconium, or certain medical conditions
  • ▶ If you're planning a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean), policies may vary by the facility

How We Keep Water Births Safe at Holistic Birthing Center NYC 

At Holistic Birthing Center NYC, we are deeply committed to ensuring that your water birth is as safe, comfortable, and empowering as possible. We take every precaution to create a peaceful and supportive environment for you and your baby. For more details about our water birth services, visit our Water Birth page.

  • ▶ Screening and Informed Consent: We carefully guide you through the process, ensuring that water birth is a good fit for you. We provide clear, honest information so you can make the best choice for your birth plan.
  • ▶ Rigorous Tub Cleaning and Water Quality Standards: Your safety is our priority. We maintain the highest standards for water quality, ensuring the tub is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized before each use to minimize any possible risk.
  • ▶ Temperature Control, Fetal/Maternal Monitoring, and Exit Criteria: We carefully monitor water temperature and your well-being throughout labor. Our team is always ready to adjust and ensure you and your baby stay comfortable and safe. If needed, we have clear guidelines for leaving the tub.
  • ▶ Experienced Midwives and Emergency Preparedness: Our compassionate and experienced midwives are trained to handle any situation that may arise. We're prepared with emergency protocols and clear transfer plans, ensuring you feel secure at every step.

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At Holistic Birthing Center NYC, we believe water birth can be a wonderful, safe option for many families. You can trust that we'll be there with you, supporting and guiding you through your beautiful birth experience.

Are Water Births Safer

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is water birth safe for first-time mothers?

Yes, water birth can be a safe and beneficial option for first-time mothers with a low-risk pregnancy. Many women find that the warm water helps with pain management and relaxation, making the experience smoother.

Can I have a water birth if I plan to use an epidural?

No, water birth and epidurals don't typically work together. The epidural reduces movement, and the water can interfere with its effectiveness. We recommend discussing pain relief options with your provider to find the best fit for your birth plan.

What happens if something goes wrong during a water birth?

If any complications arise, we are fully equipped to transition to births out of water. Our experienced team follows clear safety protocols to ensure the health of both mother and baby.

Embark on the Beautiful Journey with Holistic Birthing Center NYC

Water birth can be a safe option for many low-risk pregnancies when proper protocols and experienced care are in place. At Holistic Birthing Center NYC, we prioritize your safety, comfort, and the well-being of your baby every step of the way. Whether you're considering a water birth at home or in our center, we are here to support your unique birth journey.

If you're thinking about water birth, we invite you to schedule a tour or book a consultation with our experienced team. Let us help you explore all the potential benefits of water births and how we can make your birth experience a peaceful and empowering one.

We're here to support you in making the best choice for your birth plan!

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Questions? We're Here to Help!

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(646) 907-5515