When I had my daughter, I was deeply committed to natural childbirth methods from the moment she came into this world. The routine newborn procedures seemed overwhelming, and I was determined to either refuse them completely or find alternatives.
My journey led me to question everything, understand the necessity of these procedures, and ensure my preferences were respected. Thankfully, my doctor in Dubai supported a natural approach, making a significant difference in my experience.
Antibiotic Eye Ointment
Antibiotic eye ointment, usually erythromycin, is commonly given to prevent infections that can cause blindness, mainly from gonorrhea or chlamydia. However, if you’ve tested negative for these infections and are in a monogamous relationship, you might consider skipping this step. The ointment can disrupt a baby’s vision, impacting bonding and breastfeeding.
Alternatives:
- Delay application: Allow time for initial bonding and breastfeeding before applying the ointment.
- Refuse if negative: If you tested negative for infections and are in a stable relationship, you can safely refuse the ointment.
- Use natural alternatives: Some parents opt for breast milk as a natural antibiotic eye treatment. A few drops in each eye are believed to have antimicrobial properties, though this is more anecdotal than scientifically supported.
Vitamin K Shot
Vitamin K is crucial for blood clotting, and its deficiency can lead to bleeding. The standard shot given contains a high dose and preservatives, raising concerns among natural-minded parents. I read that this is also only necessary if you had a traumatic birth and there is risk or internal bleeding for the baby, which is quite rare to this extent.
Alternatives:
- Oral Vitamin K Drops: These are effective though slightly less so than the shot. Follow the Danish regimen: 2mg at birth and 1mg weekly for three months.
- Supplement through Breastfeeding: Mothers can take Vitamin K supplements to boost levels in breast milk.
- Ensure natural sources: During pregnancy, consume foods high in Vitamin K such as leafy greens, which can help increase Vitamin K levels in your baby through the placenta and later through breastfeeding.
Early Cord Clamping (ECC)
ECC was once thought to reduce postpartum hemorrhage, but it’s no longer recommended due to its potential drawbacks, such as increased jaundice risk.
Alternatives:
- Delayed Cord Clamping (DCC): Waiting 3-5 minutes, or until the cord stops pulsating, allows for better blood and iron levels in the baby.
- Lotus Birth: This practice involves leaving the umbilical cord attached until it naturally falls off, promoting a more holistic transition for the baby. While not mainstream, it’s embraced in some natural birthing communities.
Bathing the Baby
Immediate post-birth bathing can strip away vernix, a protective, antimicrobial substance on the baby’s skin. Hospital products often contain unwanted chemicals. I only bathed my daughter at home, 4 days after her birth.
Alternatives:
- Delay the First Bath: Waiting 24-48 hours, or even a week, can be beneficial. Use gentle, natural products if you choose to bathe your baby.
- Sponge baths: Instead of full immersion, a gentle sponge bath can clean the baby while preserving the vernix. Use warm water and soft cloths, avoiding any soaps that might irritate the baby’s delicate skin.
Hepatitis B Vaccine
The Hepatitis B vaccine is typically given at birth to protect against Hepatitis B, a serious liver infection. However, some parents feel this vaccine can wait if the mother tests negative for the infection.
Alternatives:
- Delay the Vaccine: Discuss with your pediatrician about delaying the vaccine until your child is older, especially if you’re low-risk.
- Enhanced maternal testing: Ensure thorough prenatal testing and consider ongoing monitoring for Hepatitis B to make an informed decision about the timing of the vaccine.
Blood Sugar Tests
Routine blood sugar tests are often performed on newborns, particularly those at risk of hypoglycemia. This can be stressful for the baby.
Alternatives:
- Monitor Symptoms: If your baby isn’t showing symptoms of low blood sugar, you might consider skipping these tests. Breastfeeding on demand can help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
- Encourage skin-to-skin contact: This practice helps regulate the baby’s body temperature and blood sugar levels naturally, reducing the need for frequent testing.
Raising a natural baby means questioning standard procedures and making informed decisions that align with your values.
Do thorough research, discuss with your healthcare provider, and trust your instincts to choose what’s best for you and your baby. I can reinforce this enough! Do your own research.
I read books, watched so many documentaries and tried my best to stay away from the mainstream information when it comes to these procedures.
Remember, your choices are valid, and with the right support, you can ensure a natural, respectful birth experience.
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