A vaginal birth provides your baby with an initial kick- start to the breath, nervous, endocrine and craniosacral system and overall whole body function.  The gradual and deep pressure a baby experiences going through the birth canal squeezes out the water in the lungs, ignites the breath and initiates a rhythmic pumping motion throughout the craniosacral system.   

The craniosacral system comprises the bones of the head, spine and pelvis, the connective tissue and fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord as well as the brain and spinal cord themselves and the nervous system. 

C-section babies often experience a tightening of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord because of the rapid change in pressure during a c-section birth.  A tight membrane system causes restriction in the movement of the bones of the head. 

The nerves need space to properly send and receive information to and from the muscles and organs in the body. The cranial nerves that regulate digestion, the heart and lungs, GI tract, muscles of the neck, face and mouth, suckling and swallowing all pass through the bones of the head.  Craniosacral work helps to free up the movement of the cranial bones and connective tissue and bring the craniosacral system back into alignment. Bringing movement and freedom back into this system gives the nerves the space they need to properly regulate the baby’s digestive, nervous, muscular, skeletal and cranial systems.  

Not only does a c-section effect the baby’s nervous system, but it also influences the fluid pressure within the head.  The natural mobility of the cranial bones and connective tissue serve as a pump to circulate the fluid and blood that surrounds and moves through the brain and spinal cord.  The pressure of going through the birth canal enables this natural pumping motion to begin.  Without this stimulus, the cranial bones are less mobile which can lead to a buildup of fluid within the head.  This excess of pressure within the head can cause the infant discomfort and may lead to greater risk of ear infections due to fluid buildup.  It is also important for the blood to circulate smoothly as it helps to keep the endocrine or glandular system in balance.

Babies born by c-section also tend to have a sensitive nervous system and difficulty with digestion.

Some common symptoms that occur when the craniosacral system is restricted are reflux, colic, difficulty nursing or latching on, GI disturbances, difficulty sleeping and inconsolable crying.