A new trend is emerging among mothers called "Lotus Births." Lotus Births refers to allowing the umbilical cord detach from the baby naturally, instead of the standard procedure of almost immediately clamping and severing the cord.
It can take up to 10 days (TEN DAYS!) for the umbilical cord to fall off. Of course, until that happens, the mother must carry the infant everywhere since they are physically bound to each other until it detaches. Although some might find this method a bit uncomfortable–or even sort of crazy–Mary Ceallaigh, a midwife and Lotus Birth advocate, say that it can be good for the baby and mother's health.
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Ceallaigh says that keeping the umbilical cord between a mother and her child helps with bonding and by cutting it, doctors are interrupting the natural process and harming a healthy mother and baby. Ceallaigh has reportedly delivered over 100 natural births and claims that keeping the umbilical cord intact reduces the chances of infection and allows the baby to receive placenta blood when the baby needs it most right after birth.
However, some moms may think it's a hassle having to keep their newborn literally attached to them until their umbilical cord falls off. The midwife says it's not as difficult as it may sound because usually it only takes three days for that to happen. Only in humid locations does it take 10 days for the umbilical cord to fall off. The smell can be bothersome to some since the placenta starts to dry out after a couple of days. Letting the umbilical cord fall off naturally also gives your newborn a perfect belly button, in case the cosmetic side of this type of birth appeals to you!
I have to admit, this whole trend sounds strange to me, but I understand where Ceallaigh is coming from as far as keeping the birth as natural as possible. I can see how Lotus Births may raise some eyebrows, but I guess if you're a mom into raising your children as naturally as possible, then this method may be ideal for you.
Image via Mybirth.tv
