planning a natural birth?
vernix caseosa is beneficial for baby
That newborn baby smell is called Vernix Caseosa and is a cheesy coating that insulates and maintains a proper temperature for baby in utero. Vernix is also beneficial to the baby’s health after birth in many ways and there are many advantages to leaving Vernix on baby instead of washing it off immediately after birth – which has become a normal part of modern-day birth. The benefits of Vernix are becoming more known and accepted, even the World Health Organization (WHO) states that the Vernix should be left on baby for at least 24 hours after birth. Baby is not born dirty!
What is vernix caseosa?
Vernix caseosa is a white, cheesy substance that covers, protects, and nourishes baby’s delicate skin during gestation. It is made up of lanugo (fine, downy hair), sebum, and shed skin cells. Vernix caseosa is usually found on newborn babies’ skin and is typically wiped off within the first few days of birth. However, recent research has found that leaving vernix on the baby can be beneficial to the baby’s health.
Are all baby’s born with it?
Yes, all babies are born with vernix. The amount and thickness of the vernix varies between babies, but it typically covers all of baby’s skin. When your baby reaches full term, the vernix reaches its peak thickness. As your due date gets closer, the vernix slowly begins to thin as it gets absorbed by the amniotic fluid. If you give birth close to your due date, there will likely be a thin layer of vernix present. Premature babies tend to have a thicker layer of vernix.
Why is it beneficial to leave it on baby?
Vernix is beneficial for a newborn baby after birth because it acts as a barrier to help protect the baby’s skin from bacteria and other sources of infection. It also helps to keep the baby’s skin hydrated and prevents it from becoming too dry. Additionally, the vernix contains natural antimicrobial properties that help to reduce the risk of infection. Studies have also shown that leaving the vernix on the baby can reduce the risk of developing certain skin conditions such as eczema.
DO NOT cover baby’s head with a birthing hat it makes baby hot and this covers the smell (oxytocin) that mom needs to inhale.
How long should I wait before I wash it off the vernix?
The WHO recommends leaving the vernix on for at least 24 hours. I have mom friends who leave it on for days and weeks depending on visitors. When it comes to bathing your newborn baby, there are a lot of conflicting opinions. Some people believe that the vernix should be rubbed into the baby’s skin, while others suggest that it should be washed off. While vernix does not pose any threat to your baby, many hospitals opt to remove it through a bath. It is understandable that people would want to get rid of the unsightly substance on their baby’s skin, but why remove it if it is beneficial? Hospitals do not normally ask if you want them to bathe baby on the day they are born, it is simply routine, if you want the bath to be delayed it is important that you create a birth plan that clearly states not to bathe baby!
Even though baby is not born dirty, it is likely that your baby will also have traces of blood and amniotic fluid on their skin. You can ask the nurse to gently use a washcloth and wash off these fluids while keeping most of the vernix untouched. As long as too much of the vernix isn’t wiped away, your baby will still reap the benefits.
In the event that your baby is born with meconium on their skin, it is important to give them a bath. Meconium is the first stool your baby produces and sometimes it is expelled in the womb. This can be dangerous for a baby, so it is important to ensure that the baby is thoroughly washed if meconium is present.
Can vernix help with breastfeeding?
Yes, vernix can also help with breastfeeding. Mom needs the smell and it helps with maternal-infant bonding. The first few moments with baby are the most important, and instead of startling the baby by taking him/her away for a bath, engage in skin-to-skin contact immediately. This will help regulate baby’s body temperature and releases Oxytocin.
Oxytocin is a powerful hormone that acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain known as the “love hormone”. Oxytocin is released by the pituitary gland that plays an important role in the social bonding between mother and baby. It is released in response to a baby’s smell, skin-to-skin contact, and breastfeeding. Oxytocin helps to stimulate the release of milk from the mother’s breasts, making it easier for the baby to feed. Oxytocin also helps to foster the emotional bond between mother and baby, making it easier for them to connect with each other. In addition, oxytocin helps to reduce stress and anxiety in both the mother and the baby.
A healthy, happy baby makes for easier and more successful breastfeeding.
Interesting facts about vernix:
Vernix is Baby’s First Line of Defense
Vernix is the baby’s first line of immune defense. When a mother holds her baby for the first time, the healthy bacteria on her skin jump onto her baby. The vernix provides an environment where bacteria can anchor and establish very quickly.
*In your birth plan, state that you want to leave this vernix on your baby to help protect them.*
Every parent has the right to make an informed decision about whether to leave the vernix on their baby or wash it off. While it may be common practice to wash off the vernix, it is important to understand that there are benefits to leaving it on. Ultimately, the benefits of leaving the vernix on far outweigh the temporary unsightly appearance.
