Skin to Skin Contact
What is Skin to Skin Contact?
As soon as your baby is born they will be dried by the midwife and placed onto your chest. This is called ‘skin to skin’ contact and is a very special time for you and your baby. Skin to skin contact helps to keep baby calm and warm. It helps to regulate baby’s heart beat and breathing. Your birthing partner may also remain close to you to enjoy this time too.
Does Skin to Skin Contact have to happen straight after birth?
Sometimes straight after the birth you and/or your baby may need immediate medical attention, you may not be able to have skin to skin contact right away. Don’t worry, you can always enjoy skin to skin contact as soon as both you and baby are ready.
The HSE provides information on the benefits of ‘Skin-to-Skin Contact with New-Borns’.
For more information, visit:
Skin to Skin Contact and Breastfeeding
During skin to skin contact you and your baby will probably feel quite relaxed. Baby may move to your breast ready to feed. If you are planning to breast feed this may be an ideal time for you to start.
For more information on the benefits of Breastfeeding, please visit:
