Skin-to-Skin Contact: Why These First Cuddles Matter So Much

Holding your baby close is more powerful than you might think

The moment your baby is born, the world changes – for both of you. One of the most natural, instinctive ways to begin your journey together is through skin-to-skin contact. It’s simple, beautiful, and backed by years of research showing just how important those first cuddles really are.

Whether you’ve just given birth, you’re planning ahead, or you’re caring for a baby in neonatal care, skin-to-skin (sometimes called “kangaroo care”) is something you can do to calm, comfort, and connect with your baby.

Let’s explore what it is, why it’s so important, and how to keep practising skin-to-skin in those early weeks and beyond.

What is skin-to-skin contact?

Skin-to-skin contact means placing your naked baby directly on your bare chest, ideally immediately after birth. Your baby is typically covered with a blanket or towel to keep them warm, but the skin on skin stays in contact – no layers between you.

This isn’t just for mothers, either. Partners and other caregivers can all do skin-to-skin. It’s safe, it’s calming, and it’s one of the easiest ways to bond with your baby – whether they’re minutes old or already a few weeks in.

The science of cuddles: why it’s so powerful

Holding your baby skin-to-skin triggers a wave of benefits, both emotional and physiological. For the baby, it’s a gentle, familiar transition from womb to world. For you, it can release hormones that promote bonding, confidence, and milk production.

Here are some of the key benefits:

For your baby:

• Regulates temperature, heart rate and breathing – your body helps stabilise theirs
• Reduces stress and crying – the sound of your heartbeat and voice is deeply soothing
• Supports digestion and blood sugar regulation
• Boosts immunity – your skin passes on healthy bacteria to help protect against infection
• Promotes brain development through calm and consistent contact
• Eases pain – it’s even been shown to reduce discomfort during medical procedures
• Encourages early feeding behaviours – babies often begin to nuzzle or root for the breast during skin-to-skin

For you:

• Increases oxytocin – the “love hormone” that supports bonding, breastfeeding and emotional wellbeing
• Reduces cortisol – lowering stress and helping you feel calmer and more connected
• Improves milk supply – particularly in the early days
• Builds confidence – especially if you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure

When should I do skin-to-skin?

Right after birth (if possible)

Most maternity units now encourage uninterrupted skin-to-skin time for at least the first hour, or until after the first feed. This applies to vaginal births and, where safe, to caesarean births too. It can even be written into your birth plan.

If you’re not able to do skin-to-skin immediately due to medical reasons, don’t worry. You can start as soon as you’re both ready, whether that’s hours or days later.

How skin-to-skin supports premature babies

Skin-to-skin is especially valuable for premature or low birth weight babies. In NICU settings, it’s often referred to as kangaroo care. Even short periods of contact have been shown to:

• Improve oxygen levels
• Support growth and development
• Reduce stress
• Aid milk production for mums expressing breast milk
• Shorten hospital stays

Skin-to-skin at home

Skin-to-skin isn’t just for the hospital. In fact, continuing at home is encouraged. It’s a simple way to calm a fussy baby, strengthen your bond, and feel more attuned to their needs.

Try it:

• After baths
• Before or after feeds
• During cuddles in bed or on the sofa
• Whenever your baby seems unsettled

What does my baby actually do during skin-to-skin?

You might notice your baby follows a natural sequence of behaviours:

1. Crying – their first sound after birth
2. Relaxation – calming down as they feel your warmth and heartbeat
3. Awakening – opening their eyes and becoming more alert
4. Crawling and rooting – moving towards the breast (yes, they really can!)
5. Suckling – possibly beginning to feed on their own
6. Sleeping – that first cosy nap in your arms

Every baby is different – some may be drowsy (especially if you had pain relief), while others will be wide-eyed and wriggly. Either way, there’s no rush. Give them time, and let your midwife help if needed.

What if I had a caesarean?

If you’ve had a planned or emergency c-section, you can still enjoy skin-to-skin, often while you’re still in theatre or as soon as you’re in recovery. Your baby can be placed high on your chest, avoiding the surgical site.

If you’re not feeling well enough, your partner can take over. Skin-to-skin with dads and partners has many of the same benefits and can help them bond, feel more connected, and ease the transition into parenthood.

Final thoughts: it’s more than just a cuddle

Skin-to-skin contact is a gentle, powerful way to welcome your baby into the world. It’s more than a cuddle – it’s a natural way to support their health, comfort, and development, while helping you build that beautiful bond from the very beginning.

And the best part? You can keep doing it for as long as you both enjoy it. Whether your baby is hours old or a few months in, those skin-to-skin moments are always worth it.