Why is skin to skin contact so important? Let me tell you the ways! First, let me tell you how it's done! It's also called kangaroo care. Even though it requires actual skin exposure, it can be done very modestly and discreetly. Mom needs to remove all clothing from the waist up (this means the bra, too). Baby needs only diaper and cap (yes, remove those mitts! - don't you use your hands when you eat?). Place baby tummy to tummy with mommy (daddy can do this too, he just won't make milk!). Just place the baby right between your breasts, be patient and wait for the magic to begin. (Mom and baby can be covered with a light blanket for modesty.) I liken it to sitting in the kitchen while a wonderful, savory meal is being cooked. The baby "smells" the breasts making milk! She will use her hands and head and move towards one breast or the other. If you are very patient, she will place herself on the breast and begin nursing without much assistance from you, all you need to do is support her head and neck on the way. Studies have shown that skin to skin care enhances neurological development (this would be dad's contribution, if he wants to participate!) We recommend skin to skin time at least every two hours for the first day or so to help with establishing breastfeeding. More magic about skin to skin? Mom's body temperature will adjust to keep baby warm or cool baby down!
Dr. Nils Bergman pioneered this method initially to help preemies survive. He has since and continues to promote skin to skin care for ALL babies.
Follow Dr. Bergman's work at his website:
Dr. Nils Bergman pioneered this method initially to help preemies survive. He has since and continues to promote skin to skin care for ALL babies.
Follow Dr. Bergman's work at his website:
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