The golden hour of skin-to-skin is the first hour (or even two) after a baby is born, where the baby is placed directly on the birthing parent's bare chest. This is a critical period for bonding, promoting attachment, reducing stress for both mother and baby, and helping the baby adapt to life outside the womb.
The golden hour allows for:
- Improved breastfeeding: Skin-to-skin contact helps the baby find the breast and latch on, promoting the production of breast milk.
- Temperature regulation: The baby's temperature is stabilized by being in contact with the parent's body.
- Reduced crying: Skin-to-skin contact helps calm the baby and reduce crying.
- Enhanced bonding: The physical closeness and interaction during the golden hour create a strong bond between the parent and baby.
- Improved baby health: Skin-to-skin contact has been linked to improved breathing, heart rate, and blood sugar in babies.
It's important to note that the golden hour is not just for mothers. Partners, other family members, and even fathers can engage in skin-to-skin contact with the baby.
