Did you know?
Vernix caseosa, more known as just vernix, is a white, cheesy-looking substance that covers the baby skin while in the uterus. Some babies are born with this fabulous protective coat
🔸Protect the foetus from urea and electrolytes, in the amniotic fluid
🔸Help the baby to regulate temperature
🔸During a vaginal birth, vernix acts as a lubricant; protective biofilm, and an antimicrobial
🔸After the baby is born it acts a moisturiser
🔸It has antioxidant properties, like vitamin E and melanin
🔸Its smell also stimulates the production of oxytocin in the parents helping with the bonding
When should I wash the baby?
The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends that bathing should be delayed to after 24 hours of birth. If this is not possible at all due to cultural
reasons, bathing should be delayed for at least 6 hours.
This information can be helpful when writing up your birth plan.