Vaginal seeding

A procedure to transfer vaginal microbiota to newborns delivered by C-section

Vaginal seeding is a procedure that involves transferring vaginal fluids from a mother to her newborn child, particularly when the child is delivered via cesarean section. The practice aims to expose the newborn to the mother's vaginal microbiota, which is believed to play a role in the development of the infant's immune system and microbiome.

Background

During a vaginal birth, a newborn is naturally exposed to the mother's vaginal and intestinal microbiota. This exposure is thought to help colonize the infant's gut with beneficial bacteria, which can influence the development of the immune system and protect against certain diseases. In contrast, infants born via cesarean section may have a different initial microbiota composition, as they are not exposed to the vaginal microbiota during birth.

Procedure

The vaginal seeding procedure typically involves swabbing the mother's vagina with sterile gauze or cotton swabs shortly before delivery. After the cesarean section, the swabs are used to wipe the newborn's mouth, face, and body, thereby transferring the mother's vaginal microbiota to the infant.

Potential Benefits

Proponents of vaginal seeding suggest that it may help mimic the natural exposure to maternal microbiota that occurs during vaginal birth. This exposure is thought to:

• Promote the development of a healthy gut microbiome
• Enhance the infant's immune system
• Reduce the risk of certain conditions associated with cesarean delivery, such as asthma, allergies, and obesity

Risks and Controversies

Despite its potential benefits, vaginal seeding is a controversial practice. Concerns have been raised about the risk of transferring harmful pathogens from the mother to the infant, such as Group B Streptococcus, herpes simplex virus, and other infections. As a result, some medical professionals advise against the practice unless more research is conducted to establish its safety and efficacy.

Current Research

Research on vaginal seeding is ongoing, with studies examining its impact on the infant microbiome and long-term health outcomes. Some studies have shown promising results, while others highlight the need for caution and further investigation.

Related pages

• Microbiome
• Cesarean section
• Immune system
• Gut microbiota