"Why have a water birth?" what a great question. When you think about it, water birth has so many benefits and it simply makes so much sense to bring your baby into the world in such a kind and gentle manner, Furthermore there is a reason why it is catching on...Pain reduction and complete relaxation!
With that in mind, water birth seems to result in lower adrenalin ( fight or flight response) therefore allowing for better oxytocin and oxygen flow to the mother and her uterus. As a result, her contractions are more efficient.
Episiotomies can be avoided, due to the water softening the tissues surrounding the perineum, making them more pliable and able to stretch.
Sometimes, labor itself could be shortened – this is being seen over and over again as more women choose water birth.
A woman in labor can still have the freedom to move the way her body is asking with the added benefit of some laboring positions being easier in the water. For example, squatting on land is a demanding stretch; in water, with gravity diminished, it comes easily and naturally.
Also, a person is bouyant in water, so your core muscles are truly able to relax. This is very helpful in labor because your body can concentrate on opening up and let your baby out instead of supporting your structure.
Water birth improves the blood supply to the placenta, thus improving the unborn baby's oxygen levels.
Birthing a baby in water provides the baby with almost an exact replica of the environment of the womb- wet, warm , weightless, and gentle.