The theory behind the practice is that babies born via c-section do not benefit from exposure to the bacteria that children born via the vaginal canal receive.

It’s an attempt to help boost the immune system of new babies, after reports link Caesarean birth with a greater risk of some immune-related conditions, however, doctors say it could do more harm than good.

‘I really understand,’ Dr Clausen told BBC.

‘it’s a fascinating thought that you’re able to mimic nature by doing the seeding, but it’s based on some theoretical thoughts and we don’t have evidence to support it.’

Without studying the procedure, there is no evidence to say that it even would work in practice. Other doctors add that it could in fact expose baby to more dangerous bacteria than expected, and until the science has been done to steer clear.

This article first published on New Idea.