The Magic of Skin-to-Skin: Why It's So Important for You and Your Baby
Becoming a parent is an incredible journey, and one of the most beautiful experiences is the bond you create with your newborn. You may have heard about the importance of skin-to-skin contact after birth and during your hospital stay or homebirth, and you might be wondering how it all works. Let's dive into why skin-to-skin is so beneficial for both you and your baby.
What is Skin-to-Skin?
Skin-to-skin contact, also known as kangaroo care, involves placing your unclothed baby directly on your bare chest. This allows for direct skin contact between you and your little one.
Addressing Your Concerns
You might be wondering how essential medical checks and procedures will be handled while you're enjoying skin-to-skin. Rest assured, healthcare providers can perform necessary assessments like checking your baby's heart rate, blood pressure, and temperature right on your body. Eye ointment and vitamin K injections can often be postponed for an hour or two, as they are not emergency treatments. Waiting a little while to find out your baby's exact weight won't matter as you enjoy this special time. Some mothers even choose to delay the first bath, opting to give their baby the first bath at home.
The Amazing Benefits
Skin-to-skin contact offers a wealth of benefits for both you and your baby:
Temperature Regulation: Your body acts as a perfect thermostat, adjusting to keep your baby at the ideal temperature.
Nourishment: Your baby instinctively knows how to find your breast and begin feeding, triggering the release of oxytocin, the "love hormone," which helps your uterus contract.
Stable Vital Signs: Skin-to-skin contact helps stabilize your baby's heart rate and blood sugar levels.
Bonding: You and your baby fall in love, enjoying the release of endorphins, the pleasure hormones, which you were meant to feel when you are close together.
Better Sleep: Studies show that both mother and baby sleep more peacefully when they are close together because they develop a rhythm.
Milk Supply: Skin-to-skin contact helps establish your milk supply easily.
Reduced Crying and Weight Gain: Your baby will cry less, gain weight better, and be protected from germs.
A Natural Harmony
There is no hospital procedure or medical prescription that can bring about such complete, natural, and perfect harmony between you and your new baby. You will be amazed!
