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The Vital Benefits of Skin-to-Skin Contact for Newborns and Mothers

​Skin-to-skin contact, also known as kangaroo care, offers numerous advantages for both mothers and newborns, fostering a strong foundation for their relationship while providing essential health benefits. This practice, rooted in the simplicity of human touch, has garnered recognition for its profound impact on early infant development and maternal well-being.

The intimate connection established through skin-to-skin contact plays a pivotal role in enhancing bonding between mother and child. This close physical proximity allows newborns to feel the warmth and comfort of their mother's skin, creating a sense of security and familiarity. Likewise, mothers experience a deep emotional connection as they cradle their baby against their chest, fostering a bond that forms the cornerstone of their relationship.

This article will explore the advantages of skin-to-skin contact and provide guidance on maximising its benefits.

Benefits of Skin-to-skin Contact

  • Bonding Enhancement: Skin-to-skin contact fosters a deep emotional connection between mother and child by promoting physical closeness and intimacy, laying a strong foundation for their relationship.
  • Breastfeeding Facilitation: Engaging in skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth, often referred to as the "golden hour," supports early breastfeeding initiation. The close proximity and warmth of the mother's skin encourage the baby's natural instinct to latch and nurse, facilitating a successful breastfeeding experience from the outset.
  • Improved Milk Supply: The hormonal response triggered by skin-to-skin contact, particularly the release of prolactin and oxytocin, stimulates milk production in breastfeeding mothers. This regular and intimate contact with the baby's skin signals the body to produce an optimal supply of breast milk to meet the infant's nutritional needs.
  • Reduced Crying: Babies held in skin-to-skin contact experience a sense of security and comfort, leading to reduced instances of crying or distress. The soothing effect of close physical contact helps regulate the baby's emotions and promotes a calm and contented state.
  • Parental Stress Reduction: Skin-to-skin contact not only benefits the baby but also helps alleviate stress and anxiety in parents. The act of holding their newborn against their skin promotes feelings of relaxation, confidence, and emotional well-being, fostering a positive caregiving experience.
  • Physiological Regulation: Skin-to-skin contact plays a vital role in regulating the newborn's physiological parameters, including temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, breathing, and blood sugar levels. The warmth and stability provided by the parent's body help maintain the baby's vital functions within optimal ranges, promoting overall health and well-being.

How to do Skin-to-skin with Your Baby

Mothers and fathers can engage in skin-to-skin contact with their baby by following these guidelines:

  • Supportive Posture: Maintain a relaxed and supportive posture while holding your baby when you are awake and alert. Sit or recline in a semi-upright position, with pillows or cushions providing additional support for your back and arms
  • Positioning: Hold your baby against your bare chest, ensuring maximum skin-to-skin contact. Place the baby in an upright position with their head turned to the side, allowing easy breathing. Ensure that the baby's mouth and nose are not covered, and their face is visible. Keep the baby's arms and legs tucked in and ensure he/she is breathing comfortably
  • Comfortable Environment: Find a quiet and comfortable space where you and your baby can relax without distractions. Dimming the lights and playing soothing music can help create a calming atmosphere

By following these guidelines, both mothers and fathers can create a nurturing and supportive environment for their baby, promoting bonding, comfort, and overall well-being through skin-to-skin contact. For more guidance, feel free to reach out to SGH Neonatal and Developmental Medicine or download a copy of our leaflet for more resources: Guide to Skin-to-skin Contact.pdf