The Importance of Skin-to-Skin Contact

Imagine the shock of being born—baby is in a whole new world, full of light, cold, and open space. Luckily, it is incredibly easy to help your baby transition to life on the outside with some skin-to-skin time! Skin-to-Skin, also called Kangaroo Care, is beneficial for both mama and munchkin at any time, but it packs the biggest punch in the hour following birth. Ask your care provider if your little one can be placed on your chest immediately after birth, and if all procedures can be delayed for an hour or two. Some may even be done while you cuddle!

Proper Skin-to-Skin is just that—time spent with the baby’s skin directly on yours. You should always cover your baby with a blanket (and a diaper!) to make sure that she doesn’t get cold. Here are some of the benefits your baby may experience while cuddling Skin-to-Skin:

• Decrease in stress levels
• Improvement in the quality of sleep
• Accelerated brain development
• Better temperature regulation (babies have a lot of trouble with this at first!)
• Better digestion and weight gain
• Stimulated immune system
• More regulated heart rate and breathing
• Better breastfeeding success
• Improved bonding with you!

And for the mamas?

• Reduced risk of postpartum depression
• Reduction in stress/increased feelings of well-being
• Better milk-production
• Increased recovery time
• Improved bonding with your munchkin!

Even one Skin-to-Skin session is beneficial, but engaging in it regularly is the best way to get the most out of it. Dads can participate in Skin-to-Skin as well! So what are you waiting for? Strip down and cuddle up!

For more information on the benefits of Kangaroo Care, check out Nuroo.