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Supporting your baby’s gut after C-section

A C-section can be life-saving and medically necessary for many reasons. But they also change how babies are first exposed to beneficial microbes. Instead of gaining important gut bacteria from their mother during birth, C-section babies are first exposed to skin and hospital microbes. This can affect how their gut microbiome develops in those crucial first months.

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C-section birth and the gut: Why it matters

Your baby’s gut microbiome plays a key role in building the immune system, supporting digestion, and guiding metabolism. Babies born by C-section often have fewer of the beneficial bacteria, like Bifidobacteria, that are linked to lower risk of allergies, asthma, and obesity later in life.

The good news? By understanding how your child’s gut microbiome is developing, you can take steps to support it.

Knowledge is the first step to action

There are ways to help. Breastfeeding provides important nutrients that nourish the right gut bacteria. Studies show that in some cases, baby-specific probiotics can help restore balance. But every baby’s gut is different – especially after a C-section.

That’s why knowledge is key. By testing and understanding your baby’s gut microbiome, you can make informed choices that truly support their health.

Take the first step

Give the gut a healthy start after C-section

Our gut microbiome test for children helps you see how your baby’s gut microbiome is developing after a C-section. We guide you through the results, so you can take confident next steps – including expert-backed advice on nutrition and probiotics.

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“Very helpful"

My experience with Alba Health was great. The knowledge of the composition of the bacterias in the gut of my daugter was very helpful. The report was very clear and with many suggestions to how improve the good bacterias. Furthermore, I spoke with the nutrition and health coach that gave me some helpful tips for weaning.

– Roberta, verified Alba-customer

What research say

It's possible to restore the gut after C-section

Alba Health's co-founder Prof. de Vos is one of the pioneers in gut microbiota restoration after C-section - here he reviews the main methods to date.

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C-section babies are missing key microbes

C-section babies miss key microbes from vaginal birth, affecting gut and immune development. This may raise the risk of asthma, allergies, and eczema.

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C-section birth is linked to a higher risk of asthma and immune-related conditions

C-section births can alter a baby’s gut microbiota, increasing asthma risk if the changes persist at age one. Supporting microbiota maturation may reduce this risk.

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FAQ

When is the best time to support my child's gut health after a C-section?

Should I give my baby probiotics after a C-section?

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