Skin-to-skin contact offers numerous benefits for your baby, from better temperature regulation and brain development to a stronger bond and improved immune system. In this blog, read why the World Health Organization recommends it, backed by scientific research and personal insights from an experienced neonatology nurse. Read more ➝
The first few months of a baby's life are crucial for development, bonding and health.
An important piece of advice given by the World Health Organization (WHO) is the importance of skin-to-skin contact. But why is this so important? What does the science say about it, and how can you put this into practice as a parent? In this blog, I share not only the scientific facts, but also my personal experience as a neonatology nurse with more than 25 years of expertise working with newborns.
What is skin-to-skin contact?
Skin-to-skin contact means that a baby lies directly with their bare skin against a parent's bare skin, often on their chest. This can take place immediately after birth, as well as in the weeks and months that follow. It is a simple act with a profound impact on both the baby and the parent.
The benefits of skin-to-skin contact
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Regulation of body temperature
As a neonatology nurse, I have often seen how skin-to-skin contact helps regulate the body temperature of newborns. Especially in premature babies, who are extra vulnerable, the parent's skin acts as a natural "heater. This prevents temperature fluctuations and provides a safe environment. -
Stimulating brain development
A baby's brain develops rapidly in the first few months. Skin-to-skin contact stimulates this development through the production of oxytocin, the so-called "love hormone. This hormone promotes not only bonding, but also brain growth and maturation. From my experience, I know that babies who experience regular skin-to-skin contact tend to be calmer and less responsive to stimuli. -
Strengthening bonding
I have seen countless times how skin-to-skin contact helps bonding between parent and child. Especially for parents dealing with a premature birth or a difficult start, this form of contact provides an opportunity to still build a strong bond. The scent, touch and voice of the parent give the baby a sense of safety and security. -
Improving Breastfeeding
As a neonatology nurse, I often counsel parents on breastfeeding, and I can attest that skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth increases the likelihood of successful breastfeeding. Babies instinctively find the breast and often begin drinking on their own, a process that is wonderful to watch and support. -
Strengthening the immune system
Research published in The Lancet shows that babies who experience regular skin-to-skin contact develop a stronger immune system.
WHO and skin-to-skin contact
The World Health Organization recommends intensive skin-to-skin contact for at least the first few hours after birth, and then continuing it regularly for the first few months. This advice applies not only to premature babies, but to all newborns. It is considered one of the most effective and natural ways to support the health and well-being of both baby and parent.
My experience with skin-to-skin contact
In my years as a neonatology nurse, I have seen time and again the impact of skin-to-skin contact. I remember a parent couple whose premature baby received intensive skin-to-skin contact. Not only did this improve their baby's condition, but it also gave the parents more confidence and a sense of involvement in care. Mother expressed that she felt like a real mother only now. Moments like this always stay with me and every first time of pouching is always special.
How do you make skin-to-skin contact easier in your daily life?
Although skin-to-skin contact often begins immediately after birth, it can also be easily applied in the months that follow. Showering with your baby is one of the ways to do this, and it is exactly for this purpose that we at Moalie have the showertop designed.
The showertop is an innovative pouch top that allows you to safely shower with your baby while having direct skin-to-skin contact. It is made of recycled fabric, durable and comfortable. By holding baby firmly against your chest, the showertop creates a safe and warm environment, perfect for moments of connection.
Scientific foundation: a lasting impact
The importance of skin-to-skin contact has been confirmed time and again in scientific literature. A meta-analysis published in Acta Paediatrica shows that babies who experience regular skin-to-skin contact produce fewer stress hormones, cry less and sleep better. In addition, premature babies are more quickly discharged from the hospital when skin-to-skin contact is part of their care. This is partly because a premature baby grows better when they have regular skin-to-skin contact. In Scandinavia, there is now a Zero-seperation policy. This policy aims to separate parents and child as little as possible. Even when a baby is in Intensive Care! Babies therefore have an average of 20 hours a day of skin-to-skin contact.
A simple operation with great benefits
Skin-to-skin contact is a simple way to give your baby the best possible start. It not only promotes physical and emotional health, but also provides a wonderful opportunity to build a deep bond with your child.
At Moalie, we believe in the power of connection and development. For example, our showertop is specially designed to make skin-to-skin contact easier and safer, so you can experience these moments to the fullest. Our merino wool and cashmere shawls are also ideal during the skin-to-skin moment. The temperature regulating property ensures your baby stays nice and warm.
Want to know more about our showertop? Then read why it was nominated for the Baby Innovation Award here.
Together we make sure every baby gets a loving start!
