Skin-to-skin contact, also known as kangaroo care, is a practice that involves holding a newborn baby against the bare chest of a parent or caregiver. This practice has been shown to have numerous benefits for both the baby and the parent. Here, we will explore the importance of skin-to-skin contact and how it can help bond with your newborn.
Promotes bonding
One of the most significant benefits of skin-to-skin contact is that it promotes bonding between the parent and the baby. The skin-to-skin contact releases hormones such as oxytocin, which is also known as the “love hormone.” This hormone helps to create a strong bond between the parent and the baby, which is crucial for the baby’s emotional and social development.
Regulates the baby’s temperature
Newborn babies have difficulty regulating their body temperature, and skin-to-skin contact helps to regulate their temperature. The parent’s body temperature helps to warm the baby, while the baby’s body temperature helps to cool the parent. This helps to keep the baby at a stable temperature and reduces the risk of hypothermia.
Improves breastfeeding
Skin-to-skin contact can also help to improve breastfeeding. When the baby is placed skin-to-skin with the parent, it stimulates the baby’s natural feeding reflexes, making it easier for the baby to latch on and feed. It also helps to increase the production of breast milk and can help to establish a successful breastfeeding relationship.
Reduces stress and anxiety
Skin-to-skin contact can also help to reduce stress and anxiety in both the parent and the baby. The hormone oxytocin, which is released during skin-to-skin contact, helps to reduce stress and anxiety levels in the parent. For the baby, the skin-to-skin contact provides a sense of security and comfort, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety levels.
Improves sleep
Skin-to-skin contact has also been shown to improve sleep in both the parent and the baby. The warmth and comfort of the skin-to-skin contact can help to promote relaxation, making it easier for both the parent and the baby to fall asleep and stay asleep.
So, how can you incorporate skin-to-skin contact into your bonding routine with your newborn?
Make time for skin-to-skin contact
Set aside some time each day to have skin-to-skin contact with your newborn. This could be immediately after birth, during feedings, or during nap time. Make sure to choose a time when you are both relaxed and comfortable.
Choose a comfortable position
Choose a comfortable position for skin-to-skin contact. The most common position is to hold the baby against your bare chest while seated or lying down. You can also use a wrap or carrier that allows for skin-to-skin contact while on the go.
Relax and enjoy the moment
Skin-to-skin contact is meant to be a relaxing and enjoyable experience for both the parent and the baby. Take the time to relax and enjoy the moment, and don’t worry about distractions or interruptions.
Involve your partner
Skin-to-skin contact is not just for mothers. Fathers and partners can also participate in skin-to-skin contact with their newborns. This helps to promote bonding and create a strong relationship between the baby and both parents.
Thus, skin-to-skin contact is an essential bonding practice that has numerous benefits for both the parent and the baby. It promotes bonding, regulates the baby’s temperature, improves breastfeeding, reduces stress and anxiety, and improves sleep. By making time for skin-to-skin contact, choosing a comfortable position, relaxing and enjoying the moment, and involving your partner, you can create a strong bond with your newborn and provide them with a sense of security and comfort that will positively impact their emotional and social development. Skin-to-skin contact is a simple but powerful way to connect with your newborn and support their overall health and well-being. So, don’t hesitate to incorporate this practice into your daily routine with your newborn and enjoy the many benefits it can bring. Remember, the more you bond with your newborn, the stronger your relationship will be, and the better equipped you will be to support their growth and development in the years to come.