Moms Are Being Urged Against the Latest Birth Trend Called ‘Vaginal Seeding’
I’m not the kind of mother that is crazy about new birthing, feeding, sleeping, styling or parenting trends when it comes to how I raise my children. In fact, I tend to use one old-fashioned trend that seems to have gotten out of style in recent years, and that’s using common sense. As a mother, I don’t want to pose any harm to my child and at the end of the day by job is to make sure that he is happy, healthy and growing up well-adjusted to this world.
Now, that’s not to say that I don’t have an open mind when it comes to new birthing and parenting trends because some do sound rather interesting.
But if there’s one trend that’s a hot topic right now, it’s vaginal seeding and according to experts, it’s something that you should avoid at all costs. But moms are doing it anyway.
Here’s what you need to know.
Vaginal Seeding
Vaginal seeding is a relatively new practice that has caught on among some mothers who give birth by caesarean section.
It works like this: prior to delivery, the mother inserts a pad of gauze into her vagina to soak up fluids there. The idea is that vaginal seeding allows a baby born via caesarean section to come into contact with bacteria from the birth canal.
Risks
New mothers are increasingly requesting ‘seeding’ after having a C-section because studies have shown that it partially balances a baby’s immune system. But now doctors at the UK’s Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists also warned against it. That’s because of the possibility of infections such as group-B streptococcus, E. coli and a range of sexually transmitted infections.
Dr Tine Clausen, a study author and a consultant at Nordsjaellands Hospital in Denmark, said: “We know that women and their partners are increasingly speaking to their doctors about vaginal seeding.”
She told the BBC News website: “I really understand, it’s a fascinating thought that you’re able to mimic nature by doing the seeding, but it’s based on some theoretical thoughts and we don’t have evidence to support it.”
Comments & Critics
Dr. Clausen also said that mothers should “avoid unnecessary [Caesarean] sections, aim for breast feeding for at least half a year and to have early skin-to-skin contact,” which I’m sure is something we can all agree with.
As you can imagine, the practice has gotten a lot of criticism online. Many have left comments such as:
“C-sections should only be done for health reasons. Elective ones for convenience should not be allowed.”
“If your that worried as a new mum, then breastfeed. It does the same thing, adding immunity boosting power.”
“Next they will suggest rolling a newborn in mud and dirt as a means of building up resistance.”
In the meantime, let us know what you think by dropping us a line with your thoughts in our comments section. Also, don’t forget to SHARE this post with all of your friends and family on Facebook!