Breastfeeding at Birth and the Importance of Skin-to-Skin Contact

⏳ Start Breastfeeding Within the First Hour

💡 The first hour after birth is called the "golden hour," the best time to initiate breastfeeding.

✅ Boosts milk production and increases the chances of successful breastfeeding.
✅ Helps stabilize your baby’s blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
✅ Supports the baby’s natural ability to seek the breast and latch effectively.

✅ Enhances the release of oxytocin, helping with milk production, bonding, and stimulating the uterus to contract — reducing the risk of postpartum bleeding.

📌 Tip: Allow your baby to breastfeed directly from the breast within the first hour, even if there isn’t much milk yet—colostrum is highly nutritious and beneficial.

⏳Skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth , even if it is a cesarean delivery, is the first step to a strong breastfeeding start.

✅ Helps the baby stay calm and latch onto the breast more easily.
✅ Maintains stable body temperature and breathing for the newborn.
✅ Can be practiced even in the operating theatre (after a C-section) or in the NICU, with appropriate support from the healthcare team.

📌 Tip: Keep your baby directly on your chest right after birth, without barriers like clothing or blankets, for as long as possible.

⏳Keep Your Baby in the Same Room After Birth

💡 Having your baby stay with you promotes easier breastfeeding and quicker response to feeding cues.

✅ Allows you to recognize hunger cues early, before the baby starts crying.
✅ Encourages frequent breastfeeding, which helps increase milk supply.
✅ Reduces the risk of low blood sugar, as your baby can feed more often.
✅ Improves sleep and emotional bonding between you and your baby.

📌 Tip: Ask about the "Rooming-In" policy at your hospital to ensure your baby stays with you instead of being placed in the nursery.