Lotus birth is a practice where the umbilical cord is left uncut after childbirth, meaning the newborn remains physically connected to the placenta until the cord naturally detaches. This contrasts with the conventional method of clamping and cutting the cord shortly after delivery. Separation typically occurs within three to ten days after birth. The decision to pursue this method is generally driven by spiritual or philosophical beliefs rather than established medical protocols.
The Step-by-Step Post-Delivery Process
Once the baby is born and the placenta is delivered, the entire unit—baby, umbilical cord, and placenta—must be managed together until separation occurs. The placenta is rinsed gently to remove any residual blood and is then typically placed in a sieve or colander for a period to allow for drainage and drying.
To aid in preservation and reduce odor, the placenta is often prepared by applying drying agents such as rock salt, sea salt, or a mixture of dried herbs. Some proponents also use essential oils to assist in this preparation. The treated placenta is then wrapped in a breathable cloth, like a cotton diaper, and placed inside a container or a specialized placenta bag.
The placenta must be kept close to the baby at all times, which requires careful handling and transport whenever the newborn is moved. Parents must be vigilant about maintaining the cleanliness of the placenta and the surrounding environment during this entire period.
Philosophical and Emotional Rationale
The choice to practice lotus birth stems from a deeply held belief system centered on a “non-violent” transition from the womb to the external world. Proponents view the placenta as the baby’s “twin” or first companion, deserving of reverence and respect. Keeping the connection intact is seen as a way to honor the profound relationship between the infant and the placenta.
This approach is thought to promote a gentler, more peaceful adjustment for the newborn by allowing nature to dictate the timing of separation. Some advocates suggest that the baby receives the full benefit of the placental blood volume, even after the cord stops pulsating, though blood flow ceases relatively quickly after birth.
Furthermore, the physical constraint of keeping the placenta nearby encourages an enforced “lying-in” period for the mother, which promotes rest and uninterrupted skin-to-skin contact. The practice is also linked to spiritual or holistic concepts, where the intact cord symbolizes a complete energetic or spiritual break from the intrauterine environment only when the baby is ready. This gradual process is believed by some to foster a stronger emotional bond between the baby and its parents. The spiritual significance of the placenta is often celebrated, sometimes with a ritual burial once the natural separation is complete.
Medical Safety Concerns and Risks
The medical community, including bodies like the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, generally warns against lotus birth due to significant health concerns for the newborn. The placenta, once delivered and no longer circulating blood, is considered dead tissue that is susceptible to bacterial colonization. This decaying tissue becomes a potential source of infection for the baby.
The primary danger is the risk of a serious infection, such as sepsis or omphalitis, which is an infection of the umbilical stump. Case reports have documented instances where lotus birth was associated with severe neonatal infections.
There is a lack of scientific evidence to support any purported benefits of keeping the placenta attached after the cord has stopped pulsating, which typically happens within minutes of birth. Medical professionals caution that the methods used by proponents, such as salting or applying herbs, have not been proven to effectively reduce the risk of bacterial growth or infection.
Therefore, healthcare providers recommend close monitoring for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or foul-smelling discharge near the umbilical cord. They advise seeking immediate medical attention if these symptoms appear.