What if your body started pushing without you even trying? The fetal ejection reflex is a powerful, involuntary response that can happen during birth—when instinct takes over and your body seems to know exactly what to do.

“But won’t the baby breathe underwater?” It’s one of the most common questions about waterbirth. The answer lies in the incredible way a newborn transitions from receiving oxygen through the placenta to taking that very first breath.

Your water broke—but does that mean your waterbirth plans are over? Not necessarily. Here’s what expecting parents should know about using a birth pool after the membranes have ruptured and why your birth team’s guidance matters.