Skin-to-skin contact after birth is a practice that is important for both mothers and babies. “Kangaroo Care” means placing a naked newborn on the mother’s bare chest and covering both with a warm blanket. This simple act has great benefits, especially in the first hours of life.
What is Skin-to-Skin Contact?
Skin-to-skin contact is when a baby is placed on the mother’s chest right after birth, and both are kept warm. This method, known as “Kangaroo Care,” helps babies survive better, especially if they are born early.
A study of 15,000 newborns showed that starting Kangaroo Care within the first day after birth reduced childhood deaths by about a third. The World Health Organization supports this practice, especially for preterm and low birth weight babies, as it helps them survive and grow.
The Role of Skin-to-Skin Contact in Bonding
Skin-to-skin contact right after birth helps the mother and baby bond. When the baby is on the mother’s chest, her body releases hormones that help her connect with her newborn, making her more aware of the baby’s needs. She may want to touch, smell, and talk to her baby.
For the baby, being close to the mother calms them down. After crying at birth, many babies relax when placed on the mother’s chest. Some even instinctively move toward the breast to start breastfeeding. If this process is not interrupted, it helps with a successful first breastfeeding experience.
The Process of Skin-to-Skin Contact and Breastfeeding
Skin-to-skin contact also helps with breastfeeding. Newborns learn their mother’s scent and become familiar with breastfeeding, making it easier for both. While some babies can latch on by themselves, others may need help from the mother.
Starting breastfeeding soon after birth is important, and doing it with skin-to-skin contact can help mothers produce enough milk and allow babies to get the first milk, called colostrum, which protects them from infections.
Advantages of Skin-to-Skin Contact with Newborns
Skin-to-skin contact is important for bonding and breastfeeding but also has many benefits for newborns. According to UNICEF, it can:
– Calm the baby: The mother’s warmth helps regulate the baby’s breathing and heartbeat.
– Improve oxygen levels: It helps stabilize the baby’s oxygen levels, especially for premature or low birth weight babies.
– Lower stress: Being close to the mother reduces the baby’s stress levels.
– Encourage feeding: Babies are more likely to show behaviors that lead to breastfeeding.
– Support digestion: It helps with the baby’s digestion and metabolism.
– Shorten hospital stays: Babies who have skin-to-skin contact often recover faster and spend less time in the hospital.
Benefits of Skin-to-Skin Contact for Mothers
Mothers also gain from skin-to-skin contact:
– More milk: This contact helps increase the hormone that controls milk production, making it easier for mothers to feed their babies.
– Better emotions: Being close to the baby can reduce the risk of postpartum depression and make mothers feel more confident.
– Hormone release: It stimulates the release of oxytocin, which helps with bonding and recovery after birth.
– Regulates temperature: The mother’s chest keeps the baby warm, acting like an incubator.
Skin-to-Skin Contact in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs)
Skin-to-skin contact is especially important for premature babies and those with health issues. It is now a standard practice in NICUs, helping to improve the health and survival of these infants. Babies who receive Kangaroo Care often have fewer problems, gain weight faster, and feel better overall. This close contact also reduces stress for parents during tough times.
The Science Behind Skin-to-Skin Contact
Skin-to-skin contact has strong biological support. The warmth from the mother’s chest releases oxytocin, which calms the baby, regulates their heart rate, and helps them start breastfeeding. This close contact also helps transfer good bacteria from mother to baby, building the baby’s immune system.
Conclusion: The Lifelong Impact of Skin-to-Skin Contact
The first hours after birth are a special time for mothers and newborns. Skin-to-skin contact not only supports the baby’s health and growth but also creates a strong emotional bond. Many health organizations recommend this practice, especially for vulnerable babies.
Parents can give their babies a great start in life through skin-to-skin contact, which is a simple yet powerful way to support their baby’s physical and emotional well-being. Placing a newborn on the mother’s chest is a cherished moment that helps with survival, bonding, and health throughout life. This practice will continue to be important for neonatal care worldwide as more families recognize its value.
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