Relationship with food allergies and birth mode and microbiota

Abstract Background The gut microbiota assumes a critical responsibility in the development and function of the immune system. The change in gut microbiota composition in the early stages of life is an important parameter affecting food allergy development. The current research aims to explore the possibility of cesarean delivery, which is becoming more common nowadays and causing infant food allergies. Method Scientific information on the subject was obtained from the literature accessed through MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Central, www.ClinicalTrials.gov , PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar. Results During vaginal delivery, the fetus is exposed to the vaginal and intestinal microbiota, while during cesarean delivery, it is exposed to the mother’s skin microbiota. In this case, cesarean delivery may induce dysbiosis of the gut microbiota. Factors affecting microbiota development include birth (cesarean/vaginal), maternal microbiology, breast milk intake, bacterial environmental exposure, antibiotic/probiotic use, and nutrition. Conclusion The microbiota in the female body has very important effects on gynecological and obstetric health and neonatal health. However, the literature on the subject is quite limited. The health personnel have major duties about reducing the rate of cesarean birth and promoting normal birth. Cesarean delivery may disrupt the integrity of the microbiota, causing the deficiency of bacteria associated with food allergies. Considering the importance of the microbiota factor regarding food allergies, it must be accepted that reducing the given rate by minimizing optional cesarean deliveries is essential.