When parents hold their newborn for the first time, they’re often filled with a mix of emotions—love, wonder, and a deep desire to connect. One of the best ways to nurture this connection is through skin-to-skin contact.
The calming experience of skin-on-skin offers incredible benefits for both you and your little one. This special bonding time, often referred to as “kangaroo care,” allows your baby to hear your heartbeat, feel your warmth, and experience your familiar scent.
It’s a powerful way to help your little one transition from the womb to the world. Here are just some of the benefits of skin-to-skin contact with your newborn:
Support Breastfeeding Success
Skin-to-skin contact is especially important in the early days of breastfeeding. To make the most of this bonding time, consider investing in one of the best breastfeeding pillows on the market. These ergonomic supports can help you and your baby get comfortable, allowing you to focus on the intimate experience of nursing.
When your baby is held against your bare skin, the natural instinct to root, latch, and nurse is triggered. This helps them find the breast more easily, leading to a better latch and more effective milk transfer.
Newborns who experience immediate and frequent skin-to-skin contact are more likely to breastfeed exclusively and for a longer duration. They also tend to have an easier time regulating their body temperature, breathing, and blood sugar levels – all of which support breastfeeding success.
Calm and Soothe Your Baby
When your baby is held against your bare chest, they experience your steady heartbeat, familiar scent, and the comforting warmth of your body. This triggers the release of hormones like oxytocin and endorphins, which have a soothing and comforting effect. Over time, this physical closeness can even help regulate your baby’s heart rate, breathing, and sleep-wake cycles.
Skin-to-skin contact is especially helpful for soothing fussy or crying babies. The gentle touch and calming sensations can quickly shift your little one from distress to contentment. Many parents find that making skin-to-skin a regular part of their daily routine helps their baby feel more relaxed and secure.
Support Infant Development
When you hold your newborn against your bare skin, you’re providing vital sensory input that fuels brain development and lays the foundation for healthy attachment. Studies show that babies who experience frequent skin-to-skin contact tend to have better cognitive and motor skills as they grow. They also exhibit enhanced emotional regulation and social-emotional development.
This positive impact extends well beyond the newborn stage. Infants and toddlers who receive ample physical affection and touch often display higher levels of empathy, self-awareness, and social competence.
Easy to Incorporate into Your Routine
One of the best things about skin-to-skin contact is how simple it is to make a part of your daily routine. Many healthcare providers recommend aiming for at least one hour per day, but even shorter sessions of 10-15 minutes can be incredibly beneficial.
To make skin-to-skin comfortable, try sitting in a reclined position or lying down with your baby resting on your chest. You can even do it while wearing a soft, supportive shirt or wrap. The key is to keep your baby’s head turned to the side, with their ear near your heartbeat, and make sure their blanket or clothing doesn’t restrict their breathing.
Consistent, nurturing touch is one of the most powerful tools you have for supporting your baby’s development. So, embrace this special time of connection. Let your baby’s soft skin rest against yours, feel their tiny breaths, and savour the intimate moments of bonding. It’s a simple yet profound act that offers incredible rewards for you both.