A documentary about how babies born by Caesarean Section could be more at risk from problems such as diabetes, asthma and obesity is being screened at Anglia Ruskin University’s Chelmsford campus.

There will also be a chance to ask questions of the co-director of Microbirth, Toni Harman, after the film on Thursday, February 2.

The documentary explores childbirth through the microscope, with recent research indicating that infants born by C-Section, which is becoming increasingly popular, may be more likely to struggle to develop their immune systems to their full potential as bacteria is not transferred from mother to baby in the birth canal.

Kate Cook, Lecturer in Midwifery at Anglia Ruskin, said: “This film is a fascinating look at the biological science around birth and how the immune system develops in babies as a result. We are delighted that Toni, the co-director, has agreed to join us for a Q&A session and hope that members of the public will contribute to the debate.”

Anglia Ruskin’s Midwifery department and the Mindful Midwifery Society are hosting the screening of the hour-long documentary followed by a Q&A session, from 4pm until 7pm at the Chelmsford campus.

Members of the public are welcome to attend the event, which is free of charge.