The surprising benefits of skin-to-skin contact: why every mom needs to know this

You’ve just met the love of your life, your baby. You’re soaking in the tiny fingers, the soft cries, and the overwhelming mix of emotions.

Amid the whirlwind of advice from midwives and nurses, one simple yet profound phrase stands out: “Hold your baby skin-to-skin.”

It may seem like another bonding moment, but science shows this close contact is one of the most powerful ways to help your newborn and yourself thrive.

From regulating their body to creating a foundation for lifelong connection, skin-to-skin contact, also known as kangaroo care, is nature’s way of saying, “You’ve got this.”

The science of skin-to-skin contact

When a baby is born, their world changes instantly from the warm, quiet comfort of the womb to the bright, noisy chaos outside. That’s where skin-to-skin contact comes in.

“From a biological perspective, skin-to-skin contact is like pressing a reset button,” explains Sr Londe, an independent midwife and trusted advisor to Vital Baby South Africa.

“It helps regulate your baby’s heartbeat, breathing, and temperature while also building an emotional and physical connection.”

When your baby lies against your chest, their tiny body feels your warmth, hears your heartbeat, and smells your scent. It’s not just comforting, it’s life-changing. Studies show that skin-to-skin babies cry less, feed better, and sleep more soundly.

And the benefits aren’t just for babies. For moms, this magical contact triggers the release of oxytocin, the “love hormone.” This surge of oxytocin reduces stress, promotes healing, and even supports breast milk production.

“Those first cuddles aren’t just emotional; they’re biological, Londe explains. “They teach your baby that the world is safe and that they are loved.”

The first two years of life are a critical period for brain development. During this time, your baby’s brain grows faster than it ever will again.

Every loving touch, every cuddle, every coo builds neural pathways that support emotional intelligence, resilience, and learning later in life.

Skin-to-skin contact doesn’t just create a sense of love, says Londe. “It actually influences how your baby’s brain develops. Babies who experience consistent nurturing care are more likely to grow into confident, empathetic individuals with strong social skills.”

This connection isn’t limited to moms. Whether it’s bottle-feeding, soothing a fussy baby, or cuddling after bath time, dads and caregivers play an equally important role.

5 benefits of skin-to-skin contact for mom and baby

• Regulates the baby’s vital signs: Skin-to-skin contact helps stabilise your baby’s breathing, heart rate, and temperature. It’s nature’s way of easing your newborn’s transition into the world.
• Enhances breastfeeding success: When placed against your chest, your baby instinctively starts to nuzzle, smell and latch. This early skin-to-skin contact reduces breastfeeding challenges and helps establish a strong feeding routine.
• Reduces stress for both mom and baby: Oxytocin, the love hormone, surges during skin-to-skin time. This reduces cortisol levels (stress hormones) for both of you, creating a calmer, more connected experience.
• Boosts baby’s brain development: Every touch releases endorphins that encourage brain growth. Babies who experience consistent nurturing care through skin-to-skin are more likely to develop resilience, empathy, and social skills later in life.
• Strengthens emotional bonding: Skin-to-skin creates a deep sense of trust and security for your baby while enhancing your confidence as a parent. It’s a shared moment of connection that’s rooted in touch, love, and instinct.

Skin-to-skin isn’t just for the first few hours after birth. It’s a practice that can be incorporated into your daily routine:

• Start early and often: Even short sessions of 10–15 minutes can make a difference.
• Get dad involved: Skin-to-skin isn’t just for moms; dads and caregivers can participate too.
• Cuddle during feedings: Whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, take advantage of the closeness.
• Create quiet moments: After a bath or during nap time, hold your baby skin-to-skin to calm and connect.
• Use gentle products or opt for baby-safe lotions and wipes that protect your baby’s sensitive skin and make cuddle time more soothing.

At its heart, skin-to-skin contact is about more than just physical closeness; it’s about connection. It’s a way to tell your baby, “You are safe. You are loved. I’m here.”

“Every cuddle, every touch, every moment of skin-to-skin strengthens the invisible thread between parent and child,” says Londe. “It’s not just about care, it’s about connection, and that’s what helps babies truly thrive.”