Why Skin-to-Skin Contact Is Crucial for Your Baby: Benefits and Tips
The first months of a baby's life are crucial for development, bonding and health.
An important piece of advice given by the World Health Organization (WHO) is the importance of skin-to-skin contact . But why is this so important? What does science say about it, and how can you put this into practice as a parent? In this blog I will not only share the scientific facts, but also my personal experience as a neonatal nurse with more than 25 years of expertise in working with newborns.
What is skin-to-skin contact?
Skin-to-skin contact is when a baby lies directly with his or her bare skin against the bare skin of a parent, often on the chest. This can happen immediately after birth, but also in the weeks and months that follow. It is a simple act with a profound impact on both baby and parent.
The benefits of skin-to-skin contact
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Regulation of body temperature
As a neonatal nurse, I have often seen how skin-to-skin contact helps regulate the body temperature of newborns. Especially in premature babies, who are extra vulnerable, the skin of the parent acts as a natural 'heater'. This prevents temperature fluctuations and provides a safe environment. -
Stimulation of brain development
A baby's brain develops rapidly in the first few months. Skin-to-skin contact stimulates this development by producing oxytocin, the so-called 'love hormone'. This hormone not only promotes bonding, but also the growth and maturation of the brain. From my experience, I know that babies who regularly experience skin-to-skin contact are often calmer and less likely to react to stimuli. -
Strengthening of the bond
I have seen countless times how skin-to-skin contact helps bonding between parent and child. Especially for parents who are dealing with a premature birth or a difficult start, this form of contact offers an opportunity to still build a strong bond. The smell, touch and voice of the parent give the baby a sense of safety and security. -
Improving breastfeeding
As a neonatal nurse, I often support parents with breastfeeding, and I can confirm that skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth increases the chance of successful breastfeeding. Babies instinctively find the breast and often start drinking on their own, a process that is beautiful to watch and support. -
Strengthening the immune system
Research published in The Lancet shows that babies who experience regular skin-to-skin contact develop stronger immune systems.
The WHO and skin-to-skin contact
The World Health Organization recommends intensive skin-to-skin contact for at least the first few hours after birth, and then continuing this regularly throughout the first few months. This advice applies not only to premature babies, but to all newborns. It is considered one of the most effective and natural ways to support the health and well-being of both baby and parent.
My experience with skin-to-skin contact
In my years as a neonatal nurse, I have seen the impact of skin-to-skin contact time and time again. I remember a couple whose premature baby received intensive skin-to-skin contact. Not only did this improve their baby’s condition, it also gave the parents more confidence and a sense of involvement in the care. The mother reported that she now truly felt like a mother. These moments always stay with me and every first time cuddling is always special.
How do you make skin-to-skin contact easier in your daily life?
Although skin-to-skin contact often begins immediately after birth, it can also be easily implemented in the months that follow. Showering with your baby is one of the ways to do this, and that is exactly why we at Moalie have designed the showertop .
The showertop is an innovative pouch top that allows you to shower safely with your baby while having direct skin-to-skin contact. It is made from recycled fabric, sustainable and comfortable. By holding the baby tightly against your chest, the showertop creates a safe and warm environment, perfect for moments of connection.
Scientific evidence base: a lasting impact
The importance of skin-to-skin contact is confirmed time and again in scientific literature. A meta-analysis published in Acta Paediatrica shows that babies who regularly experience skin-to-skin contact produce fewer stress hormones, cry less and sleep better . In addition, premature babies are discharged from hospital more quickly when skin-to-skin contact is part of their care. This is partly because a premature baby grows better when he has regular skin-to-skin contact. In Scandinavia, there is now a Zero-seperation policy. This policy aims to separate parents and child as little as possible. Even when a baby is in intensive care! As a result, babies have skin-to-skin contact for an average of 20 hours per day.
A simple action with great benefits
Skin-to-skin contact is a simple way to give your baby the best possible start. Not only does it promote physical and emotional health, it also provides a wonderful opportunity to build a deep bond with your child.
At Moalie we believe in the power of connection and development. Our shower top is specially designed to make skin-to-skin contact easier and safer, so you can experience these moments to the fullest. Our merino wool and cashmere shawls are also ideal during skin-to-skin moments. The temperature-regulating property ensures that your baby stays nice and warm.
Want to know more about our showertop? Read here why it was nominated for the Baby Innovation Award.
Together we ensure that every baby gets a loving start!