10 Benefits of Skin-To-Skin Contact With Baby After Birth

Skin-to-skin contact, also known as kangaroo care, is a practice in which a newborn baby is placed on the mother's or father's bare chest shortly after birth, with only a diaper on the baby. This practice promotes physical and emotional bonding between the parent and the newborn, and it offers numerous benefits for both the baby and the parent.

It's important to note that skin-to-skin contact is not limited to just the biological parents; it can also involve other family members or caregivers who are eager to bond with the newborn. This practice is generally encouraged by healthcare professionals and is recognized as a valuable component of early postnatal care. However, individual circumstances and medical considerations may vary, so it's always a good idea to discuss your preferences and options with your healthcare provider.

Skin-to-skin contact holds immense significance for both a mother and her infant. When performed accurately and in accordance with healthcare experts' guidance, this practice can yield multiple advantages for the newborn. In scenarios involving premature or underweight babies, the approach known as Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) is often advised.

If you're a new mother or currently expecting, you've likely encountered the term skin-to-skin contact. Amid the array of recommendations directed at expectant mothers during the pregnancy phase, there's also a set of postnatal suggestions, one of which pertains to engaging in skin-to-skin contact or practicing Kangaroo Mother Care with your baby.

Right after childbirth, the infant is gently dried and placed directly onto the mother's bare chest. Both the mother and the newborn are gently covered with a warm blanket. It's recommended that the mother maintains this skin-to-skin contact for a minimum of an hour, or until the baby is prepared for their initial feeding. The commencement of skin-to-skin contact occurs within the first ten minutes following birth, and healthcare professionals advise its periodic continuation within the first 24 hours after delivery.

# Regulation of Body Temperature

Newborns are not able to regulate their body temperature effectively, but being placed skin-to-skin with a parent helps regulate the baby's temperature, keeping them warm and reducing the risk of hypothermia.

# Stabilization of Heart Rate and Breathing

Skin-to-skin contact has been shown to stabilize a baby's heart rate and breathing patterns, which can be particularly helpful for premature or low-birth-weight infants.

# Bonding and Emotional Connection

The close physical contact between the baby and the parent fosters a strong emotional bond. This interaction helps establish trust and comfort between the parent and the baby.

# Promotion of Breastfeeding

Skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth has been linked to an increased likelihood of successful breastfeeding initiation. The baby is more likely to show interest in nursing and latch on correctly.

# Reduced Stress

Being held close to a parent's chest and feeling their heartbeat and warmth can help reduce stress and anxiety for both the baby and the parent.

# Enhanced Weight Gain

Skin-to-skin contact may lead to improved weight gain in newborns, especially premature or low-birth-weight infants, as it supports the baby's overall well-being and development.

# Regulation of Blood Sugar Levels

Studies have shown that skin-to-skin contact can help stabilize a baby's blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of hypoglycemia.

# Pain Relief

Skin-to-skin contact has been found to have pain-relieving effects for newborns undergoing medical procedures or tests.

# Cesarean Section Recovery

Even after a cesarean section, many hospitals now promote skin-to-skin contact as soon as possible, as it aids in recovery and promotes mother-baby bonding.

# Support for Parents

For both mothers and fathers, skin-to-skin contact offers a calming and empowering experience, boosting their confidence in caring for their newborn.