After birth, the baby's environment undergoes significant change. Previously living in the mother's uterus, surrounded by amniotic fluid, the baby relied on the mother for feeding and breathing. The enclosed space provided a sense of security. Emerging from the womb, the baby's living space suddenly expands greatly. Feeling uneasy when hands and feet cannot reach the edges, the baby must now feed and breathe independently. Thus, the baby's first cry is particularly important. If the baby does not cry upon emergence,doctors may firmly pat the baby's bottom to stimulate crying. Crying confirms normal lung function, enabling the baby to breathe independently. Thus, the first cry serves as a vital test for the newborn. Combined with the baby's initial feelings of unease, prompt skin-to-skin contact with the mother provides immense comfort and offers these additional benefits:
1. Promotes Successful Breastfeeding
Many newborns lack breast milk immediately after birth because the mother's breasts haven't yet engorged and begun lactating. Some mothers even require professional lactation consultants to stimulate milk production before their babies can feed.We all know the best way to stimulate milk production is through the baby's suckling. During the first hour after birth, the baby's suckling reflex is strongest because they are most alert during this period. Later, babies spend much of the day sleeping, and sometimes they fall asleep while nursing, so the reflex isn't as strong as it was right after birth. The baby's suckling also sends a signal to the mother's body: the baby wants to feed, and it's time to produce milk.
II. Building a Close Mother-Child Bond
While women naturally possess maternal instincts—often feeling affection for any newborn, regardless of kinship—this affection differs from true maternal love. Only when facing her own baby does a woman experience the full awakening of genuine maternal love. During intimate moments with her child, even if she previously felt apprehensive about the baby, holding and gazing at her infant instantly ignites this profound maternal bond.
Babies cannot recognize faces for a long time after birth; they distinguish parents from others by scent. When a mother holds her newborn immediately after birth, the baby memorizes her scent. Simultaneously, the baby feels secure in her arms, fostering greater dependence on the mother and deepening the bond between them.
III. Alleviating the Mother's Pain
The immense pain and hardship a mother endures are solely for the safe arrival of her baby. The moment the baby is born proves that all her efforts were worthwhile. Witnessing the fruit of her labor fills her heart with indescribable joy.Encouraging the mother to hold the baby frequently at this time helps distract her, temporarily easing the pain and fatigue she just endured. A positive mood greatly benefits her postpartum recovery.
IV. Promoting Uterine Contraction
During pregnancy, the uterus expands to accommodate the growing baby, gradually rising in position. After birth, it must contract back to its original size and descend to its proper place.Postpartum recovery requires special attention to uterine contraction. Poor contraction may lead to severe bleeding. Therefore, new mothers should engage in activities that aid uterine contraction. Among these, the baby's suckling at the breast is most effective in promoting postpartum uterine contraction while reducing the risk of postpartum hemorrhage.