Submersion up to the shoulders has been shown to help reduce blood pressure, this can translate into better oxygenation for the baby. The tranquil surroundings of a deep pool offer a sense of security and privacy. The buoyancy of water lessens the effects of gravity and increases mobility. This allows the mother to more comfortably assume a position that widens the pelvis for an easier descent of the baby. The warm water also helps relax the pelvic floor, allowing it to gently stretch, reducing the risk of tissue trauma or the need for episiotomy. If the mother chooses to birth in the water, the pushing stage is often easier and sometimes considerably faster.

Babies born in water are able to enjoy a gentle, natural transition, from one warm, secure aquatic environment to another. Waterbabies tend to be very alert and calm and because they are born without the use of pain medication, they recover more quickly from the birth. Because babies born in water do not receive the stimuli to start breathing (cool , dry air on their face) they do not take their first breath until they are brought to the surface. This "mammalian reflex" prevents the baby from trying to take a breath underwater. Until his skin reaches the air, his respiratory system does not register that he has been born, so the signal to breathe is not yet present. He continues to receive oxygenated blood via the umbilical cord, just as he did in-utero. The mother, father or birth attendant immediately lifts the baby to the surface, where he takes his first breath of air.

Mothers who have birthed or labored in water report feeling very positive and empowered by the experience.