Skin To Skin
There have been numerous studies done that show the importance and benefits of skin to skin contact for both premature and term babies. Some of the benefits to baby include - regulation of body temperature, reduced crying, stabilising heart rate and blood glucose levels, and stimulating self-latching and coordinated sucking at the breast!
Ideally babies should have at least an hour of uninterrupted skin to skin contact with their mother after birth, assuming that they are both well enough to do so. After this time, and after baby has had a good breastfeed, I am a huge advocate for encouraging dad to have some skin to skin cuddles too.
This picture is of my husband and our daughter having a lovely cuddle on the morning of her birth. I'm so happy that our midwife took these photos so that she will be able to look back one day and see how much her daddy loved her, right from the start.
Georgina Dowden is a mother, midwife and lactation consultant (IBCLC).
In her day to day life, she looks after her two beautiful children and also supports other families on their parenting journey.
If you would like to get in touch for breastfeeding or sleep/settling support, please email:
Skype/FaceTime consultations available OR home visits if you live in the Northern Rivers of NSW.
