Welcoming a baby into the world is a life-changing moment. One of the most powerful and natural ways to support your newborn’s health and emotional well-being is skin-to-skin contact. This simple yet magical act provides countless benefits for both the baby and parents.
At Shukan Hospital and IVF Centre, we encourage and support skin-to-skin contact to ensure a strong start for your newborn. Let’s explore why this practice is essential!
1. Keeps Baby Warm and Comfortable
Newborns struggle to regulate their body temperature. When placed against the mother’s or father’s bare chest, the baby absorbs warmth naturally, reducing the risk of hypothermia.
2. Strengthens Parent-Child Bond
The first moments after birth are crucial for bonding. Skin-to-skin contact helps release oxytocin (the love hormone), creating an emotional connection between parents and their newborn.
3. Boosts Breastfeeding Success
Babies placed in direct skin contact with their mothers instinctively search for the breast and latch on better. This natural process increases breastfeeding success and helps establish a strong milk supply.
4. Reduces Stress and Crying
Newborns feel secure when they hear their mother’s heartbeat and feel her warmth. This lowers stress levels, reduces crying, and promotes relaxation.
5. Strengthens Baby’s Immunity
When a baby is in skin contact, the mother’s healthy bacteria transfer to the baby, strengthening their immune system and lowering the risk of infections.
6. Helps Baby Sleep Better
Babies who experience skin-to-skin contact sleep more peacefully. It stabilizes their heart rate, breathing, and oxygen levels, supporting brain development and overall growth.
Why Choose Shukan Hospital and IVF Centre?
At Shukan Hospital and IVF Centre, we ensure that every baby gets the best start with skin-to-skin contact. We offer:
- Immediate skin-to-skin contact after birth
- Private, comfortable delivery rooms for uninterrupted bonding
- Expert lactation consultants to support breastfeeding mothers
- Family-friendly care that includes fathers in skin-to-skin bonding
FAQs About Skin-to-Skin Contact
How long should skin-to-skin contact be done after birth?
At least one hour after birth, but continuing it frequently in the first few weeks provides the best benefits.
Can fathers also practice skin-to-skin contact?
Yes! Fathers can hold their baby against their bare chest to bond and provide warmth.
Is skin-to-skin contact safe after a C-section?
Absolutely! Mothers can practice it with assistance, and fathers can also step in.
Does skin-to-skin contact benefit preterm babies?
Yes! It’s highly recommended as it improves breathing, weight gain, and overall development.
What if I can’t do skin-to-skin immediately after birth?
You can start as soon as possible once your baby is stable.
Does it help prevent postpartum depression?
Yes! It helps mothers feel more connected, reducing stress and anxiety.