Natural vs. Caesars: Impact on Baby's Microflora

There is evidence that the type of birth - vaginal vs. caesarean-section - affects the type of bacteria inhabiting the neonatal intestinal tract and may contribute to the higher risk of asthma and allergies in caesarean-born babies.

A new study adds to this body of evidence with data on the bacterial composition of the skin, oral mucosa, and the vagina of nine women before delivery. Also examined were the bacterial composition of the skin, oral mucosa, and nasopharyngeal aspirate of the women's newborn babies five minutes after delivery, and of the meconium. 

The caesarian-born infants had bacterial communities dominated by the Staphylococcus genus, whereas the vaginally born infants had bacterial compositions similar to the mother's vaginal community. These finding may help explain the increased risk of atopic conditions in caesarian-born infants and also the higher risk of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). 

In short - the digestive health of the mother before and during pregnancy is extremely important. Most women experience imbalances in the digestive tract, e.g. IBS, diarrhea, constipation, thrush, flatulence etc. Antibiotics affect the microflora of the gut by killing off good and bad bacteria and in turn weaken the immune system which resides mostly in the digestive tract. 

Looking after your digestive system with a diet high in organic vegetables, moderate amounts of organic fruit, protein and fats, small amounts of fermented foods rich in probiotics and the avoidance of toxins is crucial during and before pregnancy.