Does a C-section affect my baby's immunity?

Did you know that a large part of your baby’s immune system is in their gut? If your baby is born by vaginal delivery, they are exposed to a variety of good bacteria from your birth canal. These beneficial bacteria, such as Bifidobacteria, colonise your baby’s microbiota—the community of helpful microorganisms that play an important role in a balanced gut microbiota and their immune system. This early exposure helps your baby build a strong defence system that protects them from infections, like colds, or childhood illnesses such as measles, later in life.

However, for infants born via C-section, the exposure is a little different. Instead of encountering the beneficial bacteria found in the birth canal, C-section babies are often first exposed to bacteria from the hospital environment and the skin of people around them. These bacteria are not the same as those introduced during a vaginally delivered birth and result in a slower start for developing a balanced gut microbiota.

Research shows that this imbalance in the gut microbiota can persist for up to three years and, in some cases, even longer, depending on the child⁶. This early difference may affect how well the immune system develops and how it responds to infections.

But here’s the reassuring part: there is a way to catch up! While the way your baby enters the world might differ, it doesn’t mean their health is at risk. Your baby’s immune system continues to develop, and with your love and care, it can catch up and thrive right from the start. Contact your healthcare provider to find out more about this.

It’s completely normal to worry about your baby’s health, especially if you’ve had a C-section. You may have heard that caesarean babies have a higher risk of certain conditions, like asthma or allergies.

While some studies do suggest there is an increased risk, it’s important to know that this is just one factor among many. Genetics, environment, and even diet also play a big role in whether a child develops these conditions.

The truth is, the immune system is highly adaptable. As your baby grows, their immune system continues to develop, shaped by their environment and other factors you can positively influence. So while your baby’s start might be a little different, there are many ways to support their health and help reduce any risks.

If you’ve had a caesarean delivery, you might be wondering how you can help support your baby’s immunity. Fortunately, there are several ways to do this:

●      Skin-to-skin contact: This not only helps your baby feel secure, but also encourages the growth of good bacteria from your skin, which can benefit their immune system.

●      Hygiene and healthy environments: While it’s important to keep your baby’s environment clean, don’t worry about keeping it completely sterile. Exposure to everyday germs in a normal home environment helps the immune system learn to respond appropriately, reducing the risk of allergies and even conditions like asthma.

●      Ask your healthcare provider how to support your baby’s microbiota: They can offer advice on how to help your baby’s gut microbiome catch up on immunity.

With these steps, you can actively support your baby’s immune health and give them the best start in life, no matter how they were born.

There are several common misconceptions about caesarean delivery and its effect on a baby’s immune system. It's natural to worry, but let's clear up some of these misunderstandings and give you the reassurance you deserve.

One myth is that babies born via C-section will always have weaker immune systems. While it’s true that C-section babies have a different microbiota compared to those born vaginally, this doesn’t mean their immune system is permanently compromised. Studies have shown that your baby can catch up from the start.

It’s always helpful to talk to your doctor about the best ways to catch up on microbiota development and strengthen your baby’s immune system, especially in the first months. They can give you personalized guidance based on your baby’s needs and yours.

Another myth is that breastfeeding is more difficult after a C-section. In South Africa, 1 in 2 mothers who had a caesarean face delayed breastfeeding⁷. While breastfeeding after a caesarean may take a little more time to establish due to recovery from surgery, it’s absolutely possible, and many moms find success with the right support.

What matters is finding comfortable positions that work for both you and your baby, especially after a C-section. Popular breastfeeding positions that can be helpful after a caesarean birth include:

●      Side-lying position: This is often a favorite after a C-section because it allows you to breastfeed while lying on your side, taking pressure off your abdomen.

●      Football hold: In this position, your baby is tucked under your arm like a football, which helps avoid placing weight on your C-section incision.

●      Laid-back breastfeeding: This position involves you reclining slightly with your baby on your chest, allowing gravity to help them latch while you remain comfortable.

If you're unsure about breastfeeding positions or if you’re experiencing difficulties, don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider or a lactation consultant for guidance. They can provide advice specific to your recovery and help you feel confident in feeding your baby.

By focusing on what works for you and your baby, you’ll find the balance that helps you both thrive—no matter how your baby was born.

Whether your baby was born through vaginal or caesarean delivery, what’s most important is the loving bond you share. Your emotional well-being plays a big role in how your baby grows and thrives. A positive birth experience is key for both you and your baby, and the good news is that you can create that positive experience no matter how your baby was delivered.

By focusing on your joy, your love, and the connection you have with your baby, you’re giving them the best possible start. A happy, calm environment supports your baby’s emotional and physical health, helping them feel secure and ready to grow.

In summary, the way your baby is born—whether through vaginal delivery or C-section—shapes how their immune system begins to develop. Babies born vaginally are naturally exposed to beneficial bacteria from their mother, helping to establish a healthy microbiota from the start. However, children born via caesarean section experience a different bacterial environment, which has different consequences for their gut microbiome and leads to slower immune development.

But here’s the important part: there are ways to catch up! The immune system is incredibly adaptable, and with the right guidance, your baby can develop a strong, balanced microbiome that supports their immunity over time. To ensure your baby’s immune system gets the best support, it’s a great idea to talk to your healthcare provider. They can offer advice on specific steps you can take to help your baby’s immune system catch up, whether through practices like skin-to-skin contact, breastfeeding techniques, or other supportive measures.

A well-developed microbiome from the beginning plays an important role in protecting your baby against conditions like asthma, allergies, and infections such as measles¹⁵. With the right care, your baby can build a resilient immune system—no matter how they were born!