The Golden Hour After Birth: Why It’s So Important!

Ever heard of the "Golden Hour"? This magical first hour after delivery can make a world of difference for both mama and baby!
During this special time, skin-to-skin contact releases oxytocin, the "love hormone," fostering immediate bonding between mom and baby. It also stimulates the baby's rooting and sucking reflexes, making breastfeeding easier to start.
But that's not all! This close contact boosts the baby's immune system by transferring beneficial bacteria from the mother's skin, helping to cultivate a healthy microbiome. Plus, placing the baby on the mother's chest helps regulate the baby's body temperature, blood pressure, blood sugar and stress hormones.
The familiar rhythm of mama's heartbeat eases the baby's transition from the womb to the outside world, providing comfort and calm for all.
While the Golden Hour may not always be possible due to complications, include it in your birth plan and express your desire to protect this special time whenever possible

[@carlabeck4861]

I'm happy the hospital I delivered at actually advocated to mothers, for the golden hour.

[@angeliquemendoza1196]

Thank you for your explanations, encouragement, and time! God bless you . I am going to try to go as natural as god allows my second birth this may. I love your advice!

[@MariadelKoumen_takos]

I had a c-section and was put under for them to take out the placenta and close me up. I was in recovery for many hours afterward since my private room had not been ready on time and i got to see my baby and hold him for the first time like 10 hours later. I did feel a connection to him right away though, which hadn't happened with my first like that.

[@CrochetwithRachelMarie]

My second was premature and I didn’t get to hold her until 3 days after my emergency c-section. It tore me to pieces and was the most unnatural thing I have ever felt. When I was released to go home but she had to stay in the nicu was the hardest day of my life. So thankful that she only had to stay 8 days and is a healthy 9 month old now, but it did take longer to feel that connection than with my first child

[@mamanatural]

Thank you for sharing your story ❤️

[@emilyhopkins8108]

My last baby started nursing 30 minutes after I delivered her.

[@ajmeow2212]

Can I feed him as soon as he comes out?

[@mamanatural]

Yes you can!

[@SandaCorinaPop]

They took my baby away right after birth. Didn't let me hold him until 10 hours later

[@byrdie89]

9 months later still doing skin to skin 🫠

[@mamanatural]

Love that! It's so beneficial past the newborn stage.