Lotus Birth: A Gentler Way to Come into the World

There has been a recent push among many parents to seek out more natural, unobtrusive methods of labor and childbirth. One method which is gaining in popularity as of late is the practice of lotus birth, yet many people are unaware that this practice even exists, let alone what it actually means. There are numerous benefits to babies whose parents practice lotus birth, and no true risks have been found. This article will describe the practice and origins of lotus birth, as well as outlining the benefits and possible drawbacks to the practice.

What is lotus birth?

Lotus birth is the practice of leaving the umbilical cord and placenta intact after childbirth. In lotus birth, the placenta is typically wrapped and carried with the baby until the cord naturally dries and severs a few days after birth. In most cases, the placenta is treated with salts and herbs to preserve the meat and prevent spoiling and odor.

The origins of lotus birth

To many modern thinkers, lotus birth seems like a "new age" idea. But in truth, lotus birth has been practiced for ages. While the exact origins of lotus birth are unknown, there is evidence that ancient cultures greatly treasured the placenta, and therefore likely allowed the baby to remain connected to his source of life. Cultures worldwide still hold the placenta in high esteem, and some cultures actually view the placenta as the baby's "twin," and thus advocate a gentle separation of the two rather than a forceful, premature severing of the umbilical cord. Early American pioneers practiced lotus birth and revered the placenta, which is not surprising considering that these people valued everything they had and wasted nothing -- this group of people gave birth to some of the healthiest, hardiest children in American history, and many claim that this is due to the widespread practice of lotus birth. The practice was revived in the Western world in the 1980s by parents who followed the yoga practice. Lotus birth was appealing to them due to its nonviolent, non-obtrusive nature.

What are the benefits of lotus birth?

In most modern births, the umbilical cord is clamped and cut within minutes, or even seconds, after delivery. This can deprive the baby of vital blood, oxygen, and nutrients necessary to help make the transition from being dependent on the mother to surviving alone. Clamping and cutting the cord too early after birth can lead to infant jaundice and mild shock, as well as possible infection at the navel -- lotus birth avoids these risks. It is theorized that lotus birth is also a gentler way of welcoming a newborn into the world, allowing him to remain attached to the organ that has given him life for 9 months until he is "ready" to let it go. According to proponents of lotus birth, leaving the umbilical cord attached (along with other practices such as nursing and cuddling immediately after birth and leaving babies uncircumcised) allows the baby to focus his energy on adjusting to the world around him, rather than expending precious energy trying to recover from the shock of intrusive procedures. Many midwives, doulas, physicians, and parents have observed that babies who are allowed to remain attached to their placentas are often more relaxed, and do not experience the weight loss that is observed in "typical" birth (http://www.lotusfertility.com/Lotus_Birth_Q/Lotus_Birth_QA.html).

What are the drawbacks to lotus birth?

Lotus birth carries no inherent risks to the baby or the mother, as it carries no risk of infection. It may be inconvenient, however, to ensure that the placenta is properly treated so that it does not rot and begin to smell. Some mothers have been known to simply wrap the placenta in clean cloth to prevent a mess, and otherwise leave it alone, simply enduring the aroma. This is not an appealing option for most mothers, so steps usually must be taken to preserve the meat and prevent spoiling.

Is lotus birth right for everyone?

While there is no question that lotus birth is likely the best option for all babies, it is just not practical for every family. In situations such as these, it is possible to still ensure a gentle transition from the womb to the outside world. The umbilical cord should remain unclamped and uncut for at least 12 minutes, or possibly longer if the cord is still pulsing (babies whose mothers have received pain medication may take more time to draw necessary nutrients from the placenta, and thus the cord may pulsate for a longer period of time). Waiting until after the cord has stopped pulsing will greatly reduce the risk of newborn jaundice, and may help prevent the "normal" weight loss that many babies experience. Taking these few extra minutes in the delivery room can carry many of the benefits of lotus birth, without the inconvenience of preparing and carrying the placenta.

For more information on the practice of lotus birth, please refer to the links in the "Resources" section at the end of this article.

RESOURCES:

http://www.lotusbirth.com/
http://www.labouroflove.org/birth/lotus-birth/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lotus_Birth
http://www.lotusfertility.com/Lotus_Birth_Q/Lotus_Birth_QA.html

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