Skin-to-Skin After Birth: Why It’s a Must for You and Your Newborn
Imagine this—you’ve just given birth, your baby is placed on your chest, and in that moment, everything else fades away. Your body instinctively knows what to do: your heart rate steadies, your baby calms, and the world feels just a little more still. YOU DID IT. This is your baby and now this is the magic of skin-to-skin contact after birth. It’s one of the most powerful things you can do for both you and your newborn.
But here’s the thing—many parents don’t realize just how important this first hour of uninterrupted skin-to-skin really is. It’s not just a cute bonding moment (though it definitely is that too). It has real, evidence-backed benefits that set the stage for an easier transition into parenthood, a smoother postpartum recovery, and even a better start to breastfeeding.
So, if you’re a first-time mama preparing for birth and postpartum, stick with me. We’re about to break down why skin-to-skin after birth is an absolute must, how it benefits both you and your baby, and what to do if your birth doesn’t go exactly as planned. Plus, I’ll share how you can learn more about newborn care in our in-person Newborn Basics class in Long Beach, CA!
The Benefits of Skin-to-Skin Contact After Birth
Skin-to-skin contact isn’t just a feel-good moment (although it is that!) —it’s a science-backed practice that helps newborns (and parents!) transition from birth into the world. Here’s why it’s so powerful:
✓ Regulates Baby’s Body Temperature – Your chest acts like a natural incubator, keeping your baby at the perfect temperature without the need for warming beds.
✓ Stabilizes Heart Rate & Breathing – Babies who get skin-to-skin time right after birth tend to have more stable heart rates, breathing patterns, and oxygen levels.
✓ Supports Breastfeeding & Milk Production – Skin-to-skin helps trigger the baby’s natural feeding instincts, making latching easier and increasing milk supply.
✓ Reduces Stress for You and Baby – Birth is a big transition! Being close to you reduces your baby’s stress hormones and helps you feel more relaxed and confident.
✓ Promotes Bonding & Emotional Connection – Your baby knows your voice, your heartbeat, your smell. Holding them close in those first moments builds an unshakable bond.
What If My Birth Doesn’t Go as Planned?
Trust me, as a doula who has helped hundreds of families, sometimes, birth doesn’t go exactly the way we envision it. Maybe you need a cesarean birth, extra medical care, or a NICU stay. That doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the benefits of skin-to-skin contact!
For Cesarean Births: Many hospitals now allow “gentle cesareans,” where baby is placed on your chest in the OR as soon as possible. If this isn’t an option, your partner can do skin-to-skin until you’re ready.
If Baby Needs Immediate Medical Care: Even a few minutes of skin-to-skin after baby is stabilized can still provide benefits. And once you’re both able, you can make up for lost time with all the snuggles.
If You’re Feeling Overwhelmed: Birth is emotional. If you need a moment before doing skin-to-skin, that’s okay too. Your baby will benefit whenever you’re ready!! This is a new relationship and it’s just that - got to be good for both of you!
The key? Advocate for skin-to-skin in your birth plan! Let your provider and birth team know this is a priority for you and your baby and let them help make it happen when you can!
How Long Should You Do Skin-to-Skin After Birth? (And Beyond!)
Ideally, you’ll want at least an hour of uninterrupted skin-to-skin right after birth. This gives your baby time to transition, latch if breastfeeding, and soak in all those feel-good hormones. We call this the Golden Hour.
But here’s a secret—skin-to-skin isn’t just for the first hour. You can (and should!) continue skin-to-skin snuggles in the first few weeks postpartum (and really, forever!). Try it:
After a bath to keep baby warm and relaxed.
Before feedings to encourage better latching.
When baby is fussy or overstimulated—your chest is the ultimate safe space.
And guess what? Partners can do it too! Skin-to-skin with both parents strengthens the bond and helps baby feel secure!! Seriously, I tell clients to plan on being shirtless at least that first week postpartum.
Ready to Feel Confident in Your Newborn Care? Join Our In-Person Class!
Skin-to-skin is just the beginning of understanding your newborn’s needs. If you’re feeling overwhelmed about what to expect in those early weeks, our Newborn Basics class in Long Beach, CA is perfect for you!
In this hands-on class, you’ll learn:
✨ How to soothe your newborn with skin-to-skin, swaddling, and gentle techniques.
✨ Tips for feeding, diapering, and getting better sleep.
✨ What’s normal (and when to call your pediatrician!).
Sign up today and walk into parenthood feeling prepared, confident, and supported.
Click here to reserve your spot in our next Newborn Basics class!
Let’s Talk! What’s Your Biggest Question About the First Few Weeks with a Newborn?
I’d love to hear from you! Drop your questions in the comments below—whether it’s about skin-to-skin, newborn care, or anything else on your mind. Let’s make this journey easier together!
