Lotus Birth FAQs

August 31, 2023
Lotus Birth FAQs

Q: Can I bathe my baby with the cord and placenta still attached? 

A: Yes, you can give your baby a bath while the cord and placenta are still attached.

When bathing your baby, ensure that someone can carefully hold the placenta nearby, or you can place it in a container within the water. Some parents opt for using an ice cream container to keep the placenta dry during the bath.

The cord getting wet is not a cause for concern. The cord will naturally dry on its own, and there’s no harm in allowing it to come into contact with water during the bath. 

This practice aligns with the concept of honouring the baby’s transition into the world while maintaining a respectful connection to the placenta. As you embrace this process, you create a serene and nurturing environment for your newborn, facilitating a gentle integration into their new surroundings. 

Q: Can babies delivered by Caesarean have a Lotus Birth? 

A: Yes, babies born via Caesarean section can certainly experience a Lotus Birth.

The essence of Lotus Birth lies in preserving the connection between the newborn and the placenta, regardless of the mode of birth. 

If you opt for a Lotus Birth after a Caesarean birth, the process remains relatively straightforward – just keep the placenta alongside the baby. This needs to be discussed with your caregivers and medical team, to ensure they are aware of your desire for the placenta and cord to remain intact and attached to the baby. 

While Lotus Birth is often associated with vaginal births, there are documented instances of successful Lotus Births following Caesarean deliveries. The practice underscores the importance of honouring the baby-placenta connection and allowing the natural separation to occur in its own time. By embracing this practice after a Caesarean birth, you can provide your newborn with the gentle transition that Lotus Birth offers, fostering a serene and respectful entry into the world.

Q: Can premature babies have a Lotus Birth?

A: Yes, premature babies can indeed experience the benefits of Lotus Birth.

The practice of Lotus Birth, which involves allowing the baby to remain connected to the placenta until the cord naturally detaches, can be potentially advantageous for premature infants. Premature babies often require additional care and support, and keeping the placenta intact can provide them with essential nutrients and immune-boosting properties during a critical phase of transition.

The placenta is a remarkable organ that serves as a lifeline, delivering vital nutrients and oxygen to the baby. For premature babies, who might face various challenges due to their early arrival, keeping the placenta attached can offer a source of nourishment that aids in their growth and development. Additionally, the placenta contains important stem cells that can be beneficial for a premature baby’s health.

By allowing a Lotus Birth for premature infants, you are providing them with a gentle and nurturing transition into the world, enhancing their chances of thriving despite their early entry. As with any birth scenario, it’s essential to maintain the placenta’s hygiene and safety to prevent infection. Embracing Lotus Birth for premature babies is a way to offer them a holistic start to life and support their unique needs during this critical period.