Lotus Birth: A Case Series Report on Umbilical Nonseverance

Abstract

Lotus birth is the practice of leaving the umbilical cord uncut until separation occurs naturally. Our case series report describes delivery characteristics, neonatal clinical course, cord and placenta management, maternal reasons for a lotus birth, and desire for future lotus births. Between April 2014 and January 2017, six lotus births occurred. Mothers (four of the six) were contacted by phone after giving birth. A chart review was completed on each patient to evaluate if erythromycin ointment, hepatitis B vaccine, and vitamin K (intramuscular or oral) were administered, treatment of the placenta, maternal group B streptococcus status, postnatal infant fevers, infant hemoglobin or hematocrit levels, jaundice requiring phototherapy, and infant readmissions. Three of the six families decided to cut the cord before hospital discharge. No infections were noted. All contacted mothers would elect for a lotus birth again (4/6). One hepatitis B vaccine was given; all others declined perinatal immunization.

Neonatal Omphalitis After Lotus Birth

“…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 . 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 .…”

“…Likewise, Monroe et al. documented 6 in‐hospital lotus births in which no neonatal infections were noted …”

“…She transferred such a model to human birth . Although reasons for having a lotus birth vary, those cited include honor to the placenta, acknowledgment of the perceived connection between the newborn and the placenta, belief that the newborn knows the time for the placenta to be released, and increased attachment behavior and bonding between mother and newborn …”

“…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 …”

“…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. 1,2 There is limited and conflicting information about the safety of lotus births. [3][4][5][6] Omphalitis is a localized infection of the umbilicus primarily affecting neonates.…”