ACOG's Committee on Obstetric Practice addressed the issue of warm-water immersion for laboring women and for delivery of infants. The Committee felt that there are "insufficient data, especially concerning rates of infection, to render an opinion on whether warm-water immersion is a safe and appropriate birthing alternative." The Committee also felt that "this procedure should be performed only if the facility can be compliant with OSHA [Occupational Safety and Health Act] standards regarding infection." This would include the specific tub and water recirculation systems used. Also, warm water exposure over time can cause hypotension, and careful attendance by an assistant is necessary to prevent drowning. The American College of Nurse-Midwives has no current position on either hydrotherapy or water births.
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