The placenta (or afterbirth) can be wrapped in fabric or kept in a bag or bowl.
Lotus birth is an uncommon practice and there has been little research on it.
Newborns might have their vitals checked while lying on their parents chest.
Catherine Delahaye / Getty Images
After the bonding period, the placenta is dried and treated with herbs.
It is then rewrapped and kept near the baby.
For some people, lotus birth is a spiritual or ritualistic practice.
Unmedicated childbirth and home birth are popular among parents who choose lotus birth.
Lotus Birth vs.
Delayed Cord Clamping
Lotus birth should not be confused with delayed cord clamping.
Lotus birth leaves the placenta and baby fully attached for days following the birth.
There is insufficient scientific evidence to support lotus birth.
Is a Lotus Birth Safe?
Since the research on lotus birth is scant, it is difficult to say whether lotus birth is safe.
RCOGs main concern with lotus birth is the potential risk for infection.
Since there is no evidence-based research on clinical outcomes of lotus birth, risks are speculative rather than factual.
Mainly, a theoretical risk exists regarding infection.
The case implies that lotus birth may be a risk factor for neonatal hepatitis.
Considerations
There is currently insufficient evidence to support lotus birth.
Additionally, the primary risk associated with this practice is infection.
If you decide to have a lotus birth, be aware of signs that may indicate an infection.
Have your healthcare provider do it for you.
Delayed cord clamping, on the other hand, is evidence-based and offers numerous health benefits.
Delayed cord clamping may be an alternative to consider.
If you decide on a lotus birth, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider about your decision.
Be prepared to carefully handle your baby and the attached placenta in the week or so following birth.
University of Michigan, Mott’s Children’s Hospital.Lotus birth/Umbilical non-severance: What to expect.
2018;31(2):e73-e76.
2020;147(Supplement 1):e2020038505E.
doi:10.1542/peds.2020-038505e
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.Delayed umbilical cord clamping after birth.
Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.RCOG statement on umbilical non-severance or lotus birth.
2017;58(3):281-282. doi:10.1016/j.pedneo.2015.11.010
