Live Delivery of Umbilical Cord: Pros and Cons
The practice of Lotus Birth, where the umbilical cord is not cut after birth and the placenta remains attached to the newborn until it naturally separates, has gained popularity in recent decades. However, it's essential to understand that this trend is largely contemporary and does not have a well-documented origin in historical or cultural birth practices.
Lotus Birth is often associated with a natural and less-intervened approach to the newborn’s separation from the placenta. The term "Lotus Birth" reflects the symbolic purity and natural connection inspired by the lotus flower, but its actual practice as leaving the placenta attached at birth is a recent trend without clear early origins.
While the lotus flower holds significant symbolic meaning in ancient spiritual traditions such as Buddhism and Hinduism, this symbolism does not directly translate to the medical or childbirth practice called Lotus Birth. Despite claims suggesting that Lotus Birth originated from ancient Balinese cultures or Aborigines, no direct link between ancient traditions involving lotus symbolism and the Lotus Birth practice was found in the available search results.
One of the key arguments for Lotus Birth is that not cutting the umbilical cord can allow around 80-100 mL of extra blood to be transferred to the child, potentially aiding in the development of their brains. However, this practice also carries risks, such as the increased risk of bacterial infection and the potential spread of diseases.
In countries with high infection rates, such as India, the lotus birthing method can be particularly risky for the baby. The child's immune system, which is not fully developed, is vulnerable to micro-organisms in the environment, and a prolonged attachment of the umbilical cord to the baby can exacerbate these risks.
Advocates of the lotus birthing method believe it helps the baby get acquainted with the new world and has health benefits. However, it's crucial for mothers who insist on this method to consult a doctor to discuss potential health risks and precautions. The haemoglobin levels of the blood transferred via this method of birth are considered to increase, but the long-term effects on the child's health are yet to be fully understood.
To care for the placenta in lotus birth, it should be checked for integrity, drained, washed, and air-dried. The umbilical cord is carried by the mother in a bowl or special pouch for a few days until it decomposes naturally. The placenta should be kept close to the baby to prevent discomfort, but mothers must ensure a safe and hygienic environment.
Delayed cord clamping, a common practice, also improves blood hemoglobin levels. However, it's important to note that this practice involves clamping the umbilical cord shortly after birth and then waiting a few minutes before cutting it, rather than leaving it uncut for several days as in Lotus Birth.
In conclusion, while Lotus Birth may seem appealing to some as a natural and less-invasive approach to childbirth, it's crucial to consider the potential risks involved. It's always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to make informed decisions about childbirth practices.
Science has highlighted health-and-wellness benefits associated with delayed cord clamping, a practice that involves waiting a few minutes before cutting the umbilical cord after birth. However, the contemporary practice of Lotus Birth, where the placenta remains attached to the newborn until it naturally separates, extends this waiting period significantly and may pose additional risks related to bacterial infections and disease spread. Parenting decisions regarding pregnancy and childbirth should be based on a thorough understanding of both benefits and potential complications, and consultation with healthcare professionals is strongly advised.
