An en caul birth is when a baby is born still inside the amniotic sac. The amniotic sac is a fluid-filled membrane that surrounds and protects the baby in the womb. Normally, this sac breaks during labor, which is known as “water breaking.” In an en caul birth, however, the sac stays intact, and the baby is born with it still wrapped around them. This type of birth is very rare, occurring in less than one in 80,000 births.
During an en caul birth, the sac often appears as a thin, clear membrane surrounding the baby. Inside, the baby can be seen through the sac, still cushioned by the amniotic fluid. The baby may appear calm and unbothered, since they are still protected in the sac. Often, doctors or midwives carefully break the sac once the baby is fully born, releasing the baby to take its first breath.
Why En Caul Births Are Special
En caul births are often considered special or even “lucky” in many cultures. Some people believe that a baby born this way will have a blessed or protected life. In medical terms, an en caul birth poses no extra risk to the baby if handled carefully. The sac offers continued protection to the baby during delivery, especially during complicated births.
For preterm babies, an en caul birth can offer extra benefits. The amniotic sac provides a protective barrier, which can reduce pressure and stress on the baby. This protection can help avoid injury during a delicate delivery. However, en caul births can’t be planned or forced. They occur naturally and often surprise both the parents and the medical team.
En caul births are beautiful and unusual. They highlight the unique ways each birth can unfold. Photos of en caul births, if taken, often show the baby in a peaceful state, surrounded by the amniotic fluid. While uncommon, these births remind us of the fascinating nature of pregnancy and birth. En caul births add an extra layer of wonder to welcoming a new life into the world.