Caesarean section, also called C-section, is a surgical procedure in which a baby is delivered through an incision in the mother’s abdomen and uterus. It is a common procedure conducted when vaginal delivery may put the baby or mother at risk.

However, recent studies have shown that babies born via C-section have a higher risk of developing obesity and asthma later in life.

What is obesity?

Obesity is a medical condition characterized by the excess accumulation of body fat to a level that may negatively affect health. Obesity results when the energy intake from food and drinks exceeds the energy expended through physical activity.

Childhood obesity is a major public health concern as it is associated with several chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension.

The link between Caesarean section and obesity

Several studies have shown a significant association between Caesarean section delivery and obesity later in life.

A study conducted by Duke University Medical Center showed that children born via C-section were 83% more likely to be overweight or obese by age 7 than children born via vaginal delivery. Another study conducted in Denmark found that children born via C-section had a 15% higher likelihood of becoming obese in adulthood.

There are several reasons why C-section delivery may contribute to obesity. Firstly, the microbiome of babies born through C-section differs from that of babies born through vaginal delivery.

The microbiome is the community of microorganisms that inhabit the human body, mainly the gut. Studies have shown that the microbiome plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism.

Babies born via C-section may not be exposed to the mother’s vaginal and fecal microbiota, which may result in the reduced diversity of the gut microbiome and altered metabolism.

Additionally, babies born via C-section may be exposed to antibiotics to prevent infections, which may also alter the gut microbiome.

Studies have also shown that C-section babies have higher levels of insulin-like growth factor (IGF), which is associated with a higher risk of obesity.

Asthma and C-section delivery

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease characterized by wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. It is caused by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making it difficult for air to flow in and out of the lungs.

Asthma affects over 339 million people worldwide, with children being the most affected.

Studies have also shown a link between Caesarean section and asthma. A meta-analysis conducted in 2014 showed that C-section delivery was associated with a 20% increase in the risk of asthma in children.

The study also found that children born via C-section were 56% more likely to develop asthma by age 3.

The reason for the link between C-section delivery and asthma is not clear. However, some studies suggest that babies born via C-section may have reduced amounts of certain beneficial bacteria that help strengthen the immune system.

This reduced exposure to beneficial bacteria may lead to an abnormal immune response, which may trigger asthma.

Conclusion

C-section delivery is a common procedure that saves lives when vaginal delivery may put the baby or mother at risk. However, several studies have shown that C-section delivery is associated with an increased risk of obesity and asthma in children.

While more research is needed to determine the underlying mechanisms, it is imperative to explore ways to reduce the risk of obesity and asthma in C-section babies.