Why is skin-to-skin contact so important for your baby?

As soon as your baby is born, there is one simple gesture that makes a world of difference:  skin-to-skin contact. Placing your newborn against your bare chest is not a luxury or an "extra" – it is a biological necessity deeply ingrained in the natural development of a baby.

In this blog, you will discover why skin contact offers so many benefits, how to apply it, and which products can support this special moment.

What exactly is skin-to-skin contact?

Skin-to-skin contact means that your baby is lying directly against your bare skin with only a diaper on – usually on the chest or stomach. This ideally happens immediately after birth , but is also valuable in the weeks and months thereafter.

Both moms and dads can do this. It is also called "kangaroo care," especially for premature babies.

The benefits of skin-to-skin contact

1. Strengthens the bond between parent and baby

Skin-to-skin contact stimulates the production of oxytocin , also known as the ‘love or cuddle hormone’. In both the parent and the baby, this hormone creates feelings of trust, security, and calm. For your baby, this means: less stress and more safety. For you as a parent: a deeper sense of connection and confidence in your new role. It strengthens your bond from the very first minutes after birth – and that attachment forms the foundation for healthy emotional development.

2. Promotes breastfeeding

Skin-to-skin stimulates your baby's natural search and sucking reflex. Babies who lie on the breast immediately after birth often find the nipple on their own and instinctively start drinking. At the same time, it helps the mother produce prolactin (milk hormone) and oxytocin, both of which promote milk production and the let-down reflex. Even with a difficult start or pumping, frequent skin contact can positively influence breastfeeding.

3. Positive impact on brain development

The first 1,000 days are crucial for theneurological development of a child. Skin contact lowers your baby's stress level, which directly affects brain development. Babies who are regularly carried skin-to-skin show more social behavior, a stronger self-regulating ability, and fewer stress reactions at a later age The calm, safety, and love conveyed through skin contact literally support the development of their brains.

4. Better sleep and less crying

Babies who are carried skin-to-skin cry on average less long and less intense. Due to the constant proximity, scent, breathing, and heartbeat of their parent, they feel safe and reassured. This translates into fall asleep faster, deeper sleep phases, and a better sleep pattern . Especially in the first weeks, when babies are often restless in their new environment, skin-to-skin contact is a gentle way to calm and soothe them.

How and when do you do skin-to-skin?

• After birth: Place your baby directly on your chest

• Home:Plan for 30 to 60 minutes of skin-to-skin contact daily, especially in the first few weeks.

• After a shot, crying spell, or illness: Even then, skin-to-skin contact helps to calm your baby faster.

Supporting skin contact with the right products

Sometimes it's not always possible to lie bare-chested with your baby on your chest. Then there are products that help to mimic the benefits of skin-to-skin contact:

• Wear slings & ergonomic carriers:They keep your baby close to your chest, support the natural posture, and provide a sense of security.

• Baby nests or cocoons: Perfect for keeping your baby close to you during quiet moments, with a snug feeling that resembles your arms.

• Skin-on-skin T-shirts or tops:Specially designed garments make it easier to carry your baby discreetly on your skin, even on the go.