It had always been thought that genital hair could cause infections in the newborn and in the mother, due to the alleged bacteria it contained. Since the use of antiseptics in the perineal area, the shaved before delivery. Even doctors say that at the time of performing and suturing the episiotomy, there is no problem, as these can be cut a little with the scissors or separated at the time of suturing.
In addition, several studies warn that shaving increases the risk of infections of the perineum, because by destroying the local defense mechanisms and possible injuries that can be caused, they open the door to the germs that cause the infection.
To this can be added how annoying the hair growth after shaving is, a very unpleasant sensation that must be attached to the typical postpartum discomfort. Today, each hospital has its standards, but in general, they are limited to shaving the perineum area.
Another of the routines that have gone into disuse is the lavative or enema before delivery. Many moms felt uncomfortable thinking that they could evacuate at any time from the bid and this left them calmer. They also argued that at the time the baby pulled the head, if there were feces in the rectum, it could contaminate him.
Today, the anal area is covered with sterile dressings at the time of delivery, thereby isolating the possibility of contamination to the baby in the case of evacuating during childbirth.
This does not mean that, if there is time to do it and the mother wants it, she can be given a pre-delivery lavage.
