Abstract
Vernix caseosa is a “white, creamy, naturally occurring biofilm covering the skin of the fetus during the last trimester of pregnancy” (Singh & Archana, 2008). While there are many variations of birth plans that one may choose regarding their pregnancy, the health and wellness benefits of leaving the vernix caseosa on the neonate immediately following birth can be substantial. This is especially important when considering the thermal needs of a neonate along with the risk that could occur if those thermal needs are not met. The vernix caseosa, which forms around the twenty first week of gestation, also serves as an antimicrobial barrier, working to fight off bacteria even while in the womb. Following the birth, it helps prevent possible infection that could take place after the birthing process is complete. Another key role of this coating is maintaining neonate hydration. Neonate skin is very delicate, and much like lips can get cracked when exposed to the elements, a baby's skin can crack, and hydration of that skin is crucial to prevent such instances from happening. By leaving the vernix caseosa on, the neonates skin can sustain hydration for longer and keep a more well lubricated dermal layer. Enhanced mother/baby connection is also heightened as skin-to-skin contact occurs sooner than if the baby were to be bathed immediately. Therefore, it can also assist with breast-feeding capabilities. Looking further into these qualities, the health benefits and the possibilities within risk and reward regarding vernix caseosa and delayed bathing can be significant.
Included in
Optimizing Vernix Caseosa in Neonates
Vernix caseosa is a “white, creamy, naturally occurring biofilm covering the skin of the fetus during the last trimester of pregnancy” (Singh & Archana, 2008). While there are many variations of birth plans that one may choose regarding their pregnancy, the health and wellness benefits of leaving the vernix caseosa on the neonate immediately following birth can be substantial. This is especially important when considering the thermal needs of a neonate along with the risk that could occur if those thermal needs are not met. The vernix caseosa, which forms around the twenty first week of gestation, also serves as an antimicrobial barrier, working to fight off bacteria even while in the womb. Following the birth, it helps prevent possible infection that could take place after the birthing process is complete. Another key role of this coating is maintaining neonate hydration. Neonate skin is very delicate, and much like lips can get cracked when exposed to the elements, a baby's skin can crack, and hydration of that skin is crucial to prevent such instances from happening. By leaving the vernix caseosa on, the neonates skin can sustain hydration for longer and keep a more well lubricated dermal layer. Enhanced mother/baby connection is also heightened as skin-to-skin contact occurs sooner than if the baby were to be bathed immediately. Therefore, it can also assist with breast-feeding capabilities. Looking further into these qualities, the health benefits and the possibilities within risk and reward regarding vernix caseosa and delayed bathing can be significant.