As a postpartum doula and newborn care specialist, I continually marvel at the immense positive impact that skin-to-skin contact has in the first hours and days of a baby’s life. Something as simple as holding a baby on the bare chest of the mother or primary caregiver seems like a small gesture, but its benefits are profound and significant for both.
What is Skin to Skin Contact?
Skin-to-skin contact, also known as “kangaroo care,” involves placing the baby,
naked or only in a diaper, on the adult's bare chest. This simple act can be performed from the moment of birth and continues to be a comforting practice.
during the weeks and months that followed.
Benefits of Skin to Skin Contact
Regulation of Temperature and Vital Rhythms
Being close to the skin of a mother or caregiver helps a baby regulate his or her temperature, heart rate, and breathing. Studies show that this physical closeness stabilizes these systems, which is especially beneficial for premature babies.
Stress and Anxiety Reduction
Both the baby and the mother experience an increase in the release of oxytocin, the "love hormone," during skin-to-skin contact. This hormone acts as a natural sedative, reducing stress and improving the mood of both.
Facilitates breastfeeding
Skin-to-skin contact stimulates the baby's natural reflexes to seek out the breast and feed, facilitating a good start to breastfeeding and strengthening the bond between mother and child.
Stimulates Baby's Development
Safe physical contact gives babies a greater sense of security, which is essential for their neurological and emotional development. Babies who receive skin-to-skin contact tend to sleep better and cry less.
How to Practice Skin-to-Skin Contact at Home
After leaving the hospital, skin-to-skin contact is still a beneficial practice. You can do it at any time of the day, but ideal times are usually after bathing, before sleeping, or during calm moments.
For Mom, Dad or Primary Caregiver
Although the skin-to-skin bond between mother and child is usually the first, this type of contact
It is also valuable for dad or any other caregiver. It strengthens family ties, creates
a sense of inclusion and allows parents to be actively involved in care
emotional and physical of the baby.
Skin-to-skin contact is a simple, natural and accessible practice that offers a powerful
way to connect and care for babies in their first days and weeks. As a doula,
postpartum, I feel privileged to be able to guide and support families in these practices
so enriching, promoting a start to life full of love and connection for the newborn
born.
Comentarios