Skin-to-skin is more than a cuddle - it’s biology. And it's beautiful. And free.
Skin-to-skin contact, also known as kangaroo care, involves placing a naked newborn directly on the mother’s bare chest immediately after birth, often covered with a warm blanket for comfort and warmth
In those first moments after birth, it helps regulate baby's heart rate, breathing, and temperature.
Skin-to-skin is available after natural or caesarian births.
The only time this may not happen is due to the health of mother or baby. Even if delayed by a few hours, skin-to-skin in the first 72 hours has enormous benefits.
Here are some other benefits for bub:
- supports digestion,
- sparks feeding instincts
- helps bub transition to life outside the womb
- transfers good bacteria to their skin, which protects against infection
- their blood glucose levels are more likely to stay stable, and
- they are less likely to cry.
Here are benefits for Mum:
- boosts the hormones that help bring your milk in.
- has been linked to more successful breastfeeding
Don't forget Dad - skin-to-skin is equally benefical for Dad and helps create a tactile bond with their new baby.
A note about premature babies: Mater notes that even NICU babies who need oxygen can have skin-to-skin with mum or dad, which can help reduce oxygen needs, stabilise temperature, heart rate and breathing, and conserve energy. Your neonatal team will decide when it's safe.
A note about safety: Always keep baby's face visible, and ensure the mouth and nose are clear, to maximise oxygen absorption.
