Cesarean delivery can alter DNA

Cesarean delivery can alter DNA

A study conducted by researchers at the Karolinska Institute may explain why children delivered by planned Cesarean are at a higher risk for immunological diseases such as asthma, cancer, and diabetes.

The study compared white blood cells in the umbilical cords of babies delivered vaginally to those of babies born through planned Cesarean. The researchers noted genetic mutations in babies delivered via Cesarean.

Researchers believe that a probable explanation for the different DNA sequences is that during a vaginal birth, stress builds up gradually and has a natural outcome. Cesearean babies are exposed to greater amounts of sudden stress. This causes some genes to mutate in response.

This study represents a new way of looking at C-sections. Rather than focusing on the short-term birth outcomes, long-term negative effects to the baby’s health are identified.

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