Washington, DC -- Undergoing the early stages of labor in a birthing pool may offer some advantages to pregnant women. However, underwater delivery has no proven benefit to women or babies and may even pose a risk of serious health problems for the newborn. These recommendations on laboring and delivering in water were released today by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (the College) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) in a joint Committee Opinion.