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 A mother's desire to keep her healthy newborn near her is instinctive. Research indicates this is exactly what mom and her baby need. Infants who remain with their mothers after birth make an easier transition to life both physically and emotionally. Some of the benefits to the mother include distraction from discomfort, more confidence in caring for her baby, less anxiety and strengthened attachment to her baby which is believed to decrease the incidence of post partum depression. Some of the benefits to the baby include improved ability to maintain temperature, decreased incidence of low blood sugar, less crying and increased success with breastfeeding which can decrease the chance of the baby developing jaundice.
Based on this information, the staff will assist you with the following after your baby is delivered:
- Your baby will be placed on your chest with a clean blanket, dried off and then remain skin-to-skin on your chest/abdomen for approximately the first 90 minutes of life. Mothers are the perfect "incubator". Studies show their temperature will increase or decrease to warm or cool their infants as needed.
- Most infants will rest for about 20 minutes and then latch themselves to the breast if allowed to do so. Some may need a little assistance with the initial latch on. Please feel free to do what feels natural. Your nurse is available to help you as needed.
- We ask that any visitors present in the delivery room view the "new addition" for just a few minutes after delivery and then excuse themselves from the room so that the new mother and her husband/partner can have some privacy, bond with their new baby and provide skin-to-skin contact.
- After this time period, the baby will be weighed and measured and the new family will be transferred to the post-partum room together. Visitors can reunite with the family at this time.
- Your new baby will be bathed approximately 6-12 hours after delivery allowing the baby to stabilize his/her temperature before the bath. Research shows that bathing infants too soon can cause "cold stress". The nurse will bathe your baby in your room. She will make arrangements with you so you may assist or watch.
- For patients having a cesarean section, skin-to-skin contact will be initiated as soon as possible after delivery.
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