Exterogestation
This theory states that the first three months of a baby’s life are a continuation of pregnancy and require special care. Created by anthropologist Ashley Montagu, but made famous by pediatrician Harvey Karp, the theory states that pregnancy lasts 12 months instead of 9.
Based on the prefix extero-, which means “outside” or “external,” the term exterogestation is used to describe a gestational period outside the womb after the baby is born. Parents should try to recreate the uterine environment outside the woman’s body to increase the child’s comfort.
The anthropologist defends this theory based on studies that show that, compared to other mammalian offspring, human babies are much more dependent on maternal and paternal care for survival. They need extreme care in the first three months of life for their best adaptation.
In US Doula’s Doula Training, in addition to teaching more about the meaning and impact of this technique, participants will also be taught how to perform it in practice in order to provide a better environment and treatment for the baby.
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