{"id":7622,"date":"2023-05-21T11:45:04","date_gmt":"2023-05-21T11:45:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sierrapeds.com\/?p=7622"},"modified":"2023-05-21T11:45:04","modified_gmt":"2023-05-21T11:45:04","slug":"why-do-doctors-spank-babies","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sierrapeds.com\/why-do-doctors-spank-babies\/","title":{"rendered":"Why do doctors spank babies?"},"content":{"rendered":"
As soon as a baby is born, doctors and nurses often perform a routine procedure that involves spanking or gently slapping the baby on the bottom. While this may seem like a strange and even cruel practice to some, there are actually valid reasons why doctors do this.<\/span><\/p>\n Before diving into the reasons why doctors spank babies, it’s important to define what spanking is. Spanking refers to the act of hitting someone (usually a child) on the buttocks with an open hand. This can be done as a form of punishment or discipline, or in the case of newborn babies, as a way to stimulate them.<\/span><\/p>\n The practice of spanking babies has a long history and can be traced back to ancient civilizations. In some cultures, spanking was believed to ward off evil spirits or to help the baby take their first breath. Today, the reasons why doctors spank babies are grounded in science.<\/span><\/p>\n There are several theories as to why doctors spank babies. The purpose of spanking is to stimulate the baby’s respiratory system and to help them take their first breath. Here are some of the theories:<\/span><\/p>\n According to the reflex theory, spanking triggers the baby’s primitive reflexes, causing them to take a deep breath and cry. This cry helps open up their lungs and clears out any fluid that may still be present from the womb.<\/span><\/p>\n The arousal theory suggests that spanking stimulates the baby’s central nervous system, causing them to become more alert and awake. This can be helpful in cases where the baby is born with a low APGAR score, which measures their overall health and vitality.<\/span><\/p>\n The respiratory theory posits that spanking helps to clear out the baby’s airways, which can become blocked during the birthing process. The act of spanking creates a pressure wave that helps to push out any remaining fluid or mucus.<\/span><\/p>\n Finally, the stimulation theory suggests that spanking helps to stimulate the baby’s senses and get them used to the outside world. The sudden shock of being spanked can be overwhelming, but it also helps to acclimate the baby to their new surroundings.<\/span><\/p>\n While spanking newborn babies is generally considered safe and effective, there are some risks associated with the practice. For example, some babies may be more sensitive to spanking than others and may experience pain or discomfort. Additionally, some experts argue that there are better alternatives to spanking, such as rubbing the baby’s back or chest.<\/span><\/p>\nWhy do doctors spank babies?<\/b><\/h2>\n
The reflex theory<\/b><\/h3>\n
The arousal theory<\/b><\/h3>\n
The respiratory theory<\/b><\/h3>\n
The stimulation theory<\/b><\/h3>\n
The controversy surrounding spanking<\/b><\/h2>\n