You should absolutely breastfeed skin-to-skin! Skin-to-skin contact, also known as kangaroo care, is highly beneficial for both you and your baby, especially during breastfeeding.
Here's why:
- Promotes breastfeeding: Skin-to-skin contact helps your baby latch on more easily and increases your milk supply. Studies have shown that it can also reduce latch problems and increase the duration of breastfeeding sessions. [1, 2, 3, 5, 7]
- Reduces stress and improves bonding: Skin-to-skin contact helps calm and soothe your baby, reducing stress levels for both of you. It also fosters a strong bond between you and your baby. [1, 4, 6, 7]
- Regulates baby's temperature and heart rate: Skin-to-skin contact helps stabilize your baby's temperature and heart rate, making them feel safe and secure. [1, 4, 7]
- Can be done by both parents: While mothers are often the ones who do skin-to-skin, fathers and other caregivers can also participate in this bonding experience. [2, 4]
Remember: Ideally, skin-to-skin contact should begin immediately after birth and continue until after the first breastfeeding session. However, even short periods of skin-to-skin contact can be beneficial. [1, 6, 7]
