🤔Ask The Expert: Can a C-section birth really affect your baby’s 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, we’re diving into the connection between C-section deliveries and a child’s gut and immune development with Dr Jeanette Tan, Paediatrician at Parkway East Paediatric Clinic. From the early formation of a child’s 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. 🗓️ 9 July – 31 July 2025 📍 Happening exclusively on theAsianparent app ✨ Got questions about how birth methods might affect your child’s health? Drop them below and let our expert help you find answers.

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I might need C-section for my first baby… does that really mean their immunity will be weaker ah?

Dr Jeanette Tan

Paediatrician

1w ago

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 negatively 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.

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