Skin-to-skin contact is a simple way to help a parent and baby to feel calm, close and connected. It can have physical and emotional benefits for both parent and child, which can support early bonding.
Watch our video below with experienced health visitor, Rachel Costis for advice on how to do skin-to-skin safely and why it can be beneficial.
Skin-to-skin can help parent and baby feel more calm and connected
Rachel Costis, health visitor:
Skin to skin is a brilliant way for you to bond with your baby. Not only does it create a nurturing environment, it also has health benefits for your baby straight away. After birth, it regulates heart rate, temperature and breathing. Skin to skin boosts oxytocin, also known as a love hormone, and that promotes bonding and helps reduce stress, which enables babies and parents to feel more calm and more connected.
(talking to parent) What you're aiming for is baby's chest on your bare skin. Nappy on is absolutely fine.
As she's feeling the warmth of your body and feeling gentle taps, hearing your heart rate, all of these help calm her.
The other huge benefit of skin to skin is it actually helps with her immunity. So as she's lying on your chest, she's picking up the friendly bacteria from your skin onto her own, and that can help against infections.
Skin to skin isn't just for mums, it's for partners as well and you'll get all the same benefits as what mums do with your baby.
So next time your baby's feeling unsettled or restless why not give skin to skin a go - it's simple to do and you will both receive emotional and physical benefits.
We spoke to Rachel for some additional advice…
What is skin-to-skin contact?
"It's really simple. Just place your baby against your bare skin and if you're using a blanket or similar, make sure it doesn't cover their face", says Rachel.
Young babies can become cold quickly.
"Keep an eye on their temperature, so they don't get too cold or too hot."
Rachel suggests doing skin-to-skin in a comfortable environment in the home that works for you - it doesn't have to be quiet, as that might not be possible.
When should you do it?
"Make sure you do skin-to-skin safely. If you're feeling tired, or taking medication that could make you sleepy, ask a partner or family member to hold your baby instead," Rachel says.
"Even a few minutes can make a difference. Whether it's a quick cuddle or a longer session, skin-to-skin contact can be a lovely way to spend time together and build it into your daily routine."
Even a few minutes can make a difference."
What are the benefits of skin-to-skin for babies?
"We know immediately after birth it helps to regulate a baby’s heart rate, temperature and breathing", explains Rachel.
"It can also help with bonding with parents [through the hormone oxytocin.] It can reduce anxiety too. They're taking in smells, they're feeling safe. They're listening to your voice. All of that helps with their brain development."
Skin-to-skin contact can also help babies recognise when they're ready for a feed.
"They tend to root around more", says Rachel. The parent may notice early rooting signs, such as baby opening their mouth, sucking their fists or looking around for milk. "For breastfeeding mums, it may also help support milk production."
Rachel adds that skin-to-skin may help with preventing infection. See this NHS article for further advice about the benefits.
What are the benefits for parents?
"It's definitely about bonding with your baby. It does relax parents, as well as benefiting the child. It's all very tactile and it's getting to know your baby in a world that's very busy.
"You know you're not going to have people interrupting you because you're doing skin to skin.
"So give it a go and see how it helps."
Also check out this article about why cuddling can be great for babies.
CBeebies Parenting has lots of tips and advice for new parents.
