Skin to skin or direct skin contact between parents and babies turns out to have many extraordinary benefits, especially in the early days after birth.
As simple as it sounds, this moment can help calm the baby, strengthen the emotional bond, and even stabilize the body temperature and heart rate of the little one.
Unfortunately, many still don’t know the importance of skin to skin and think of it as just another hug.
In fact, this method is highly recommended by experts as part of newborn care.
Here, we’ll take a closer look at what skin to skin is and why it’s a shame to miss out on its benefits.
Let’s check it out!
What is Skin to Skin
Skin to Skin is a baby care method that involves direct contact between the baby’s skin and the skin of a parent, usually the mother.
This technique is done by placing a naked baby (only wearing a diaper) on the chest or belly of a parent who is also naked on the upper part of the body, then both are covered together.
This method is also known as “kangaroo care” because it mimics the way female kangaroos keep their babies in a pouch.
This method is highly recommended to be done immediately after birth and periodically in the first weeks of the baby’s life.
Skin to Skin is not just ordinary physical contact, but an important biological interaction between parents and newborns.
This skin-to-skin contact helps the baby in the transition process from the womb to the outside world, helps regulate the baby’s body temperature, heart rate, and breathing, and facilitates a strong emotional bond between the baby and its parents.
For breastfeeding mothers, this method is also very helpful in initiating and maintaining lactation.
When is the best time to do skin to skin
The best time to start skin to skin is immediately after the baby is born, especially within the first 1 hour of birth.
Direct skin-to-skin contact between mother and baby at this time helps stabilize the baby’s heart rate, body temperature and breathing, while stimulating milk production.
However, if the mother or baby’s condition is not possible (for example, after a cesarean section or the baby needs medical treatment), skin to skin can still be done at any time when the condition is stable, even in the following days.
Skin to skin is not only beneficial at the beginning of birth, but can also be done routinely every day, such as when breastfeeding, changing diapers, or before bed.
These activities strengthen emotional bonds, reduce stress in babies, and help with brain development.
In fact, fathers or other family members can also do it to provide similar benefits. Most importantly, make sure the baby is comfortable and the environment is warm enough during skin to skin.
Benefits of Skin to Skin for Babies that Not Many People Know About
Apart from helping to calm the baby and strengthen the bond with the parents, skin to skin has a lesser known but very important benefit.
One is that it boosts the baby’s immune system as skin contact stimulates the growth of good bacteria on the baby’s skin, protecting it from infection.
Research has also shown that babies who have regular skin-to-skin contact are less fussy because the touch of skin can reduce stress hormones and increase a sense of comfort as if they were still in the womb.
Another unique benefit is that it accelerates the baby’s brain development. Stimulation from the warmth and heartbeat of parents actually helps to mature the baby’s nervous system, especially for those born prematurely.
In fact, skin to skin can improve baby’s sleep quality as his body adjusts to his natural rhythm more easily.
The interesting fact is that this positive effect is not only felt by babies, but also by parents as it can reduce the risk of baby blues and increase milk production.
Is Skin to Skin possible for Dad?
Skin to skin is not only for moms, but it is also very beneficial when done by dads.
Direct skin-to-skin contact between father and baby can strengthen the emotional bond, as well as provide a calming effect because the baby recognizes the father’s voice and heartbeat that has been familiar since the womb.
In addition, this contact helps to regulate the baby’s body temperature and breathing well, just like when done by the mother.
The benefits of skin to skin for dads are no joke either.
This activity can increase the father’s confidence in caring for the baby while reducing post-natal stress.
In fact, research shows that fathers who regularly engage in skin-to-skin tend to be more involved in long-term parenting.
So, there’s no need to hesitate-dads can also provide the best warmth and benefits for their little ones through this skin to skin moment!
Practical Tips to Make the Most of Skin to Skin
Comfortable Position for Skin to Skin
The best position is for the baby to lie face down on the parent’s chest (mother/father) with the head slightly tilted so that the airway is smooth. Make sure the baby’s face is not covered and his nose is free to breathe air.
Mom can lie back or recline with a support pillow, while dad can sit in a comfortable chair with a backrest.
For newborns, make sure their body is in the “frog” position (bent knees) to feel like they are in the womb.
How long is ideal
A minimum of 60 minutes for optimal benefits, especially after birth.
Routine 20-30 minutes/day if you are at home, can be done when the baby is fussy, before bed, or during breastfeeding.
Premature babies need longer (1-2 hours/day) to help stabilize body temperature and development.
What to prepare (blanket, crib, etc)
- Warm room temperature (24-26°C) to prevent the baby from getting cold.
- A thin blanket to cover the baby’s back after clinging to the parents’ skin.
- Loose clothing (front buttons) or go shirtless to maximize skin contact.
- Baby diapers only (no clothes) to maximize touch.
- Support pillow (for mom/dad) to avoid soreness during skin to skin.
Skin to skin is the most beautiful first gift you can give a newborn.
This simple contact turns out to be an important foundation for your child’s physical and emotional health.
No need to wait for perfect conditions – start as soon as possible after labor and make it a loving daily ritual.
Every second of skin to skin is a valuable investment in your child’s future.
Now is the time to act! Take 20-30 minutes today to cuddle your little one in a skin-to-skin embrace.
Experience the magic of bonding and witness the benefits to baby’s development. Remember, it’s not just moms – dads can provide this warmth too.
Let’s create these precious moments from now on and see the difference in your beloved baby!
Don’t forget to support your baby’s comfort by using quality baby diaper products from MIUBaby,
