Lotus birth, a holistic approach on physiological cord clamping

Neonatal Omphalitis After Lotus Birth

“…Washing hands with soap before touching the umbilical cord or placenta will help decrease spread of infection . Additionally, the placenta should be washed with water to remove any blood or blood clots and dried well . Although the placenta can be washed within the first 24 hours, it is advised to perform this task within the first hours after birth to force dehydration .…”

“…Although the placenta can be washed within the first 24 hours, it is advised to perform this task within the first hours after birth to force dehydration . Suggestions of how to dry the placenta include initially placing it in a colander to drain and then wrapping it in a cloth of natural fibers not only to allow it exposure to air but for the cloth to absorb extra moisture . Various herbs as well as salt placed on the placenta have also been proposed to help prevent bacterial growth, control smell, and enhance drying …”

“…Zinsser reported the outcomes of 3 cases of lotus birth in out‐of‐hospital settings, and none had adverse outcomes . Likewise, Monroe et al.…”

“…Lotus birth, or umbilical nonseverance, is the practice whereby the umbilical cord is not cut from the placenta following birth but is, instead, allowed to dry and fall off on its own . There is limited and conflicting information about the safety of lotus births . Omphalitis is a localized infection of the umbilicus primarily affecting neonates.…”

“…Finally, the placenta is often wrapped in an air permeable cloth until the umbilical cord naturally disintegrates. This process can take approximately 3 to 10 days …”