There's no difference in the benefits of skin-to-skin contact between dad and mom! Both parents provide the same positive effects for babies, helping them regulate their temperature, heart rate, breathing, and blood sugar. Skin-to-skin with dad is just as beneficial as with mom. Both parents can also exchange their skin flora with the baby, contributing to a healthy microbiome.
- Dad can help regulate the baby's temperature, heart rate, breathing, and blood sugar. Just like mom, dad can help the baby maintain a stable environment.
- Skin-to-skin with dad promotes bonding. It releases hormones like oxytocin and prolactin in both dad and baby, fostering a strong connection.
- Babies who experience regular skin-to-skin with dad often cry less and appear less agitated. This can contribute to better sleep and overall well-being.
- Skin-to-skin with dad can be beneficial for breastfeeding mothers. Dad can provide skin-to-skin care while the mother is resting, expressing milk, or feeding the baby.
While skin-to-skin with mom is often emphasized, dads should be encouraged to participate in this important bonding and developmental activity.
