Definition
Skin-to-Skin means holding your diapered baby on your bare chest. It is
also called Kangaroo Care.
Benefits
Skin-to-skin has many benefits for both you and your baby.
For parents:
- Increase bonding with your newborn
- Reduce stress
- Help moms produce breast milk
- Build confidence in providing care for your baby
For baby:
- Keep baby warm
- Allow baby to have restful sleep and be calm when awake
- Baby will recognize mom’s unique scent which can help baby breastfeed easier
- Gain weight
How to do Skin-to-Skin:
- Use the restroom first as you will be sitting down for 1 – 2 hrs.
- Put your cell phone away.
- Wash your hands. Do not use lotion or perfume.
- Wear a shirt that can open in the front or ask the nurse for a gown.
- With the nurse’s assistance, place your baby directly on your bare chest.
- Lie back on the chair and adjust pillow for comfort.
- Focus on enjoying this time with your baby.
It is normal if your baby cries and seems to be uncomfortable at the beginning. Relax so that your baby can relax as well. Give your baby 10-15 min to adjust and it is very likely that your baby will fall asleep on your chest.
