Skin, immunity and type of birth

General
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The diverse micro-organism living on our skin, co-existing, benefitting us and getting benefited from us.

What factors affect the varieties of these micro organisms-

Age, gender, geographical location, climate, temperature, occupation, environment, general hygiene habits, genetics, immunity, humidity, Skin pH and type of birth. Yes type of birth, i.e, vaginal or cesarean.

Child acquires much greater variety of micro organisms when born through natural route under influence of vaginal microbiota, fostering development of immune system. Type of birth influences skin and gut flora which are associated with certain allergic disorders. Therefore, in order to restore this loss a new practice of vaginal seeding is being tested. Vaginal seeding is a process in which a newborn’s skin is wiped with swab containing vaginal fluids of mother, after C-section. Although no conclusive answer of usefulness of this technique has yet been provided, it might help us understand if high rates of immune disorders and allergies is actually affected by the type of birth.

Do you believe we actually might be able to completely restore everything that was missed by child born through C- section?

MBH/PS

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Yes, vaginal birth has its pros and cons. The immunity gained is absolutely necessary. Getting a C-section may help in some serious cases; however, normal delivery is a great way to obtain natural immunity, which cannot be mimicked to its full extent.

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For C-section babies, whose initial exposure is often to skin and hospital microbes, breast milk provides a significantly stronger impact on their gut development, acting as an alternative pathway to transfer essential maternal microbes.

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