What is Skin-to-Skin Contact?
Often referred to as 'kangaroo care,' Skin-to-skin contact is a practice where a newborn baby is immediately placed on the mother's bare chest after birth, both bodies in direct contact. During the initial few hours or even weeks, this contact allows critical bonding to take place, helping to calm and soothe both baby and mom.The Multifaceted Benefits of Skin-to-Skin Contact
Regulated Body Functions
Studies have shown that skin-to-skin contact provides physiological benefits for the baby. This contact helps regulate the newborn's body temperature, ensuring they stay warm and cozy after leaving the womb. Furthermore, it stabilizes their heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure. It also improves oxygen saturation levels, which are essential for the newborn's overall well-being.- Reducing Stress and Crying: Babies who experience skin-to-skin contact directly after birth cry significantly less, possibly due to the familiar scent and sound of their mother's heartbeat. This constant contact reassures them, reducing stress and producing a calming effect.
- Promoting Sleep: The calming effects of skin-to-skin contact encourage the newborn to sleep more peacefully, which in turn aids their cognitive growth and development.
