Skin-to-Skin Contact for Newborns
Skin-to-skin contact, also called SSC, is holding your baby next to your bare chest. SSC is also called "kangaroo care". SSC can be done right after birth, whether you had your baby by a vaginal birth or by C-section. Close contact helps to keep your baby warm and calm. It also provides many other benefits.
SSC may be done with all babies, even if your baby was born early. SSC may be done as soon as possible after birth and continued at home. You can also do SSC when your baby has a blood test or small procedure done. Your partner can also do SSC.
How does skin-to-skin contact benefit me?
You and your partner can benefit from SSC with your baby. SSC may:
Help you feel close to your baby.
Lower stress.
Reduce anxiety and depression.
Help you feel more confident about caring for your baby.
If you are breastfeeding, SSC with your baby may also:
How does skin-to-skin contact benefit my baby?
For your baby, the benefits of SSC may include:
Warmth and a feeling of comfort.
Better breathing and oxygen levels.
Less crying and more sleep.
Better weight gain and breastfeeding.
Better bonding with parents and family.
Better brain development.
Less risk of infection.
How is skin-to-skin contact done?
As soon as your baby is born, your baby will be placed on your bare chest. A warm blanket may be placed over your baby. If you and your baby are both healthy, you should hold your baby for at least the first hour of life.
If you are unable to hold your baby, your partner may also choose to do SSC with your baby. This can be a special time to bond.
When you are doing SSC, look for signs your baby is hungry, like rooting or sucking, and help your baby to your breast for a feeding.
Your health care provider will show you how to do SSC. While you are in the hospital, SSC may look like this:
Your baby will wear a diaper and hat.
You will open or take off your shirt.
Your baby will be placed on your bare chest, with your baby's ear resting above your heart and head between your breasts. Your health care team will help with this.
Your baby will be covered with a blanket to stay warm.
You will be in a reclined position.
Your team will watch you and your baby closely.
General tips and recommendations
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Keep doing SSC when you go home, especially in the first few weeks.
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Encourage your partner to do SSC with your baby too.
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Do SSC often and before breastfeeding.
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If you hold your baby skin-to-skin while on your feet or moving around, make sure your baby is safe and upright.
- Always hold your baby safely. Make sure to:
Cover your baby's back only.
Be sure you can see your baby's face.
Turn your baby's head to the side and keep their neck straight.
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Be aware of how tired you are. Ask your partner to take over if you feel like you might fall asleep during your skin-to-skin time. This will keep your baby safe.
Can skin-to-skin contact be done with premature babies?
Yes. SSC can be safely done with babies born early, including babies needing help to breathe.
How often should skin-to-skin contact be done?
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Do skin-to-skin often in the hospital and at home.
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In the first week, hold your baby skin-to-skin for at least 1 or 2 hours a day.
Rooming in, or having your baby stay in the same room as you, will allow you to have SSC as much as possible in the hospital.
How should I prepare for skin-to-skin contact?
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Use the bathroom before starting.
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Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before holding your baby skin-to-skin. If you can't use soap and water, use hand sanitizer.
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Avoid distraction, including from electronic devices.
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Do not smoke.
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Do not use any creams, powders, lotions, or perfumes.
Where to find more information
To learn more:
This information is not intended to replace advice given to you by your health care provider. Make sure you discuss any questions you have with your health care provider.
