British doctors are urging parents and healthcare providers to steer clear of the emerging birth practice known as microbirthing.
What is microbirthing?
Microbirthing involves swabbing the birth canal and applying it to the mouth and eyes of babies delivered by Caesarean section. Proponents claim it boosts the newborn's immunity, potentially reducing risks of allergies and obesity. However, leading medical experts highlight significant health concerns with this unproven method.
Why is microbirthing dangerous?
A mother may unknowingly carry infections such as herpes, streptococci, chlamydia, or gonorrhea, which could be transmitted to the baby through this practice. While scientific evidence supporting microbirthing's benefits remains scant, the risk of infection is real and well-documented. Doctors are advised to firmly decline requests for microbirthing to protect newborns.
Have you heard of microbirthing?
