How Caesarian Section Can Impact Your Baby's Health and Emotions

Caesarian section, also known as a C-section, is a surgical method of delivering a baby without previous contractions that involves making an incision in the mother's abdomen and uterus. This procedure has become increasingly common, with approximately one in three babies born in the United States and Europe being delivered via C-section. While this procedure can be lifesaving in certain situations, it can also have a significant impact on a baby's health. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the ways that C-section delivery can impact your baby's well-being.

1. Increased risk of respiratory issues. Babies born via C-section are at a higher risk of experiencing respiratory problems. This is because the pressure of passing through the birth canal helps to clear fluids from the baby's lungs, which doesn't happen in a C-section delivery. Additionally, the anesthesia used during the procedure can affect the baby's breathing efforts.

2. Delayed microbiome development. The microbiome refers to the trillions of microorganisms that live in and on our bodies, playing a critical role in digestion, immunity, and overall health. Babies born vaginally are exposed to their mother's microbiome during delivery, while C-section babies miss out on this crucial exposure. This can lead to an imbalanced microbiome and increased risk of allergies, autoimmune diseases, and other health issues.

3. Higher risk of infection. Any surgical procedure carries a risk of infection, and C-sections are no exception. Babies delivered via C-section are at a higher risk of developing infections due to exposure to potentially harmful bacteria in the surgical environment. This can lead to complications such as pneumonia, sepsis, meningitis and...

4. Increased risk of breastfeeding difficulties. Breastfeeding is the ideal way to feed a newborn, providing numerous health benefits for both the baby and mother. However, babies born via C-section are more likely to experience breastfeeding difficulties, such as latching problems and decreased milk production. It can be because an early bonding is missing through skin-to-skin and eye contact.

5. Long-term health implications. While the immediate impacts of C-section delivery can be significant, there are also potential long-term health implications for the baby. Studies have shown that babies born via C-section may be at increased risk of obesity, asthma, diabetes, and even certain types of cancer.

Conclusion:

While C-sections are sometimes necessary, when there is a risk to the life of mother and/or child, but it should not be taken lightly. After the birth process is aborted, it can cause feelings of resentment, anger, powerlessness, panic and helplessness in the baby and will have further impact on the child's life.

Delayed cord clamping, early skin-to-skin and eye contact, breastfeeding to support a healthy microbiome can help promote long-term health for your baby. Ultimately, every birth is unique, but children that experienced a natural birth struggle physically and emotionally less in life. I supported hundreds of families in my career and this is a pure fact.