Why is skin-to-skin contact after birth important?

Skin-to-skin contact after birth is important primarily because it promotes bonding between the mother and the baby, and it plays a critical role in initiating breastfeeding. This practice helps the newborn feel secure and increases the likelihood of early breastfeeding, as it encourages the baby's natural instinct to latch onto the breast.

When babies are placed on their mother's chest, they are exposed to her heartbeat, scent, and warmth, all of which create a comforting environment. This sensory experience supports the emotional connection between mother and child, which is essential not just for breastfeeding success but also for the overall emotional and physical development of the baby.

Additionally, skin-to-skin contact stimulates the release of hormones such as oxytocin in both the mother and the baby, which further facilitates maternal care and readiness for breastfeeding. This connection helps establish breastfeeding as a comfortable and nourishing practice right from the beginning, supporting a healthy start to this important relationship.

While skin-to-skin contact can also have various benefits such as reducing crying and potentially improving sleep, these are secondary to its primary role in promoting bonding and breastfeeding initiation.