Did you know? A baby’s first minutes after birth set the foundation of their start in life. This is a crucial time. The baby moves from the safety of mom’s womb to the outside world. Keeping warmth and calmness in this transition is crucial. It sets the stage for the fourth trimester.
There is a shift at hospitals births. Before, it was common for medical professionals to rush after delivery. Health checks, measurements, weigh-ins, exams, and vaccinations were done quickly. This would mean that they would take the baby and keep them away from mom immediately after birth. But there is a change happening throughout the industry.
What is Golden Hour? The Golden Hour is a special time for skin-to-skin contact. It takes place between parents and their newborn right after birth. Lasting 1-2 hours. There’s a delay for newborn checks and weighing. Baby is to immediately be put skin-to-skin on the mom’s chest.
There are tremendous benefits for the baby:
- Enhances bonding: It creates a sense of security for the infant and nurtures trust. The warmth and scent of the mama’s skin provide reassurance to the baby. Mom’s heartbeat is also a familiar rhythm.
- Early breastfeeding: Skin-to-skin contact helps start breastfeeding and increases milk production. Latching is easier and more successful. After birth, babies can “breast crawl” on their mama’s chest. It’s a wonderful miracle!
- Regulates body temperature: The mom warms the baby. Her body temperature helps baby adapt to the new cold environment. This means no extra heating or lamps.
- Promotes relaxation: The warm and secure environment calms mom and baby. It gives mom confidence. At the same time it soothes baby while adjusting to new sights and sounds.
P.S. Even in the case of caesarian sections or emergency NICU transfers. Moms can delay and still experience a later golden hour per request. Make sure this is in your birth plan and communicated with your birth team. Do not worry if things don’t go as you planned, you are doing your best. As long as mom and dad can cuddle with the new baby skin-to-skin, that is the only thing that matters!
