đ¤Ask The Expert: Can a C-section birth really affect your babyâs gut health and immunity?
You may have heard that how your baby is born can affect their gut health and even their immunity... but is that really true? This month, weâre diving into the connection between C-section deliveries and a childâs gut and immune development with Dr Jeanette Tan, Paediatrician at Parkway East Paediatric Clinic. From the early formation of a childâs gut microbiome to their ability to fight off infections, this is your chance to learn what science says, and how you can support your little one from the start. Whether you're currently pregnant or already navigating parenthood, this session is for you. đď¸ 9 July â 31 July 2025 đ Happening exclusively on theAsianparent app ⨠Got questions about how birth methods might affect your childâs health? Drop them below and let our expert help you find answers.
My friends' #2 they plan to C-sec, but they worry immunity not so strong⌠anything they can or need to do beforehand?
there are hundreds of probiotic supps in market, how to know or what signs to watch out for to know my child needs it?
Probiotics help to facilitate good gut health which in turn promotes growth and development, boosts immunity and prevents diseases as well as lowers the risk of develoing allergy-related diseases such as asthma and eczema. Some signs of poor gut health include abdominal discomfort (eg: feeling bloated, gassy, tummyaches), poor bowel movements (constipation), diarrhoea, poor mood, fatigue, weight problems and allergies and food sensitivities.
Is it true that gut health affects how baby absorbs nutrients? Cos my baby eat already still very small size. I worry
A healthy gut allows for better nutrient absorption which is crucial for a child's physical growth and neurocognitive development. However, it is important to note that a healthy gut is just one of the factors that contribute to good physical growth and development. If you have concerns about your child's growth, it is important to consult a paediatrician.
My friends' #1 is around 2 years old, very clingy and moody. some people say gut health got effect on mood. true ah?
The gut is closely linked to the central nervous system with millions of nerve cells lining the digestive tract. As such, it has a role in neural function modulation and a significant impact on pain perception, mood, anxiety, appettie, cognition and sleep/circadian rhythm. Studies have shown that children who suffer from poor gut health tend to be irritable, have low moods and are more prone to anxiety and depression.
Is it true that babies born via C-section have weaker immunity compared to those born vaginally? Why is that?
Babies born via normal vaginal delivery have a more mature immune system in early life due to the exposure to the beneficial microbes in the mother's birth canal and the stress of labour which "kick-starts" their immune system. The good microbes in the birth canal colonizes the baby's gut, forming the foundation of healthy gut. In comparison, babies born via caesarian do not have the same exposure and therefore will have a different, potentially weaker gut microbiome which may affect the development of their immune system. The mode of delivery should be decided based on medical indications and should not compromise the safety of both mother and child.
Hi Doc... If baby poop sometimes green, sometimes yellow, got anything to do with gut health or just normal?
A baby's poop can range in color from green to yellow to brown. As long as their consistency and frequency is normal and baby is thriving, it does not indicate a problem with their gut health.
If Iâm planning for a C-section, is there anything I can do now to support my babyâs gut health later?
Vaccinating your baby as per the National Immunisation Schedule will also help to boost your babyâs immunity. In addition, post delivery, breast feeding, early skin-to-skin and probiotics will help to promote good gut health for baby born via caesarean which will in turn improve babyâs immunity. Only use antibiotics when necessary. Antibiotics are important to fight bacterial infections. However, they can wipe out the good bacteria along with the bad ones, negatively impacting gut health.
one mummy told me gut health can affect sleep too... is it true? cos mine sleep pattern is unpredictable
Gut health and sleep are linked by the gut-brain axis. Gut microbes affects sleep while poor sleep can also negatively affect gut health. Having good gut health may help with sleep problems. However, it is important to remember that there are other causes of poor sleep. If you are struggling with your child's sleep pattern, it would be good to discuss the matter with a paediatrician.
also if my baby I feel always got wind in tummy... is it part of poor gut health or because of the food
Poor gut health or food allergies can both cause abdominal bloatedness. I would advise that you work together with your paediatrician to identify the cause of your child's symptoms.
After C-section, whatâs the best way to help baby build stronger immunity? Breastfeeding enough anot?
We can help to boost our newborn's immunity by taking the necessary immunisations prior to delivery. This will ensure passive immunity for 6 to 12 months from the time baby is born. Vaccinating your baby as per the National Immunisation Schedule will also help to boost your babyâs immunity. In addition, post delivery, breast feeding, early skin-to-skin and probiotics will help to promote good gut health for baby born via caesarean which will in turn improve babyâs immunity. Only use antibiotics when necessary. Antibiotics are important to fight bacterial infections. However, they can wipe out the good bacteria along with the bad ones, negatively impacting gut health.
Paediatrician