Lawrence D. Rosen, MD
Pediatrician
Old Tappan, NJ

More about Lawrence Rosen

 

How does the birth process affect a baby’s health later in life?

Many studies have documented the effects of the birth process on newborns’ emotional and physical health.

Cesarean sections and other interventions have been linked to compromised infant-mother bonding, reduced breastfeeding, and allergies. Any of these outcomes have profound implications for children’s health, both right away and for many years.

Impaired bonding is associated with higher rates of depression after giving birth (postpartum depression) and other mood disorders, which are among the greatest risk factors for unfavorable patterns of child health care. Children born to mothers with postpartum depression are less likely to receive regular checkups and other well-child care and more likely to need emergency room care by age 3.

Not breastfeeding is associated with many medical problems throughout childhood and beyond, including problems in the immune system that can lead to allergies and related illnesses as well as more infections. Babies’ immune systems benefit from exposure to the “good” flora (probiotics) that result from a vaginal delivery and exposure to breast milk and may suffer when they don’t receive them.

Fortunately, we can do something about these concerns. For example, the UNICEF Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) has already improved breastfeeding rates around the world.

The birth process has a tremendous impact on children’s health.