MemorialCare - Your Guide to Postpartum and Newborn Care

Hands-On Care

In addition to frequent feedings and diaper changes, there are other hands-on baby care skills you’ll need to know. If this is your first baby, it may take some time before you feel completely comfortable keeping your little one clean and comfortable. Just take your time, do your best, and know that it really does get easier after the first week or two.

SCAN + PLAY

SKIN-TO-SKIN CARE Holding baby skin-to-skin for the first hour or so after birth is called the “Golden Hour.” Be sure to tell your family that you will be bonding with your newborn during this time. Both parents and partners can continue to hold their baby skin-to-skin for warmth, comfort, and bonding throughout the postpartum period. Benefits • Soothes and calms you and your baby • Baby cries less • Helps your baby stay warm and stable • Enhances bonding • Helps uterus shrink to regular size

Timing • Make time for skin-to-skin several times a day (20- to 60-minute duration) • Can be done during feeding, before naps, or after diaper changes

Safe positioning • You

Sitting semi-reclined or upright Awake and alert

• Your baby Held high up in the middle of your chest Shoulders and chest facing you Head turned to one side, mouth and nose visible Chin in neutral position, not slouched (“sniffing position”) Neck straight, not bent Arms and legs held tight to side of body Back covered by warm blanket

What to watch for Your baby should always maintain good skin color and respond to stimulation during skin-to-skin. Babies are usually calm and relaxed. Because you may also get sleepy, it’s best to have an alert adult nearby to help.

SUDDEN UNEXPECTED POSTNATAL COLLAPSE (SUPC)

SUPC during skin-to-skin is a rare event, but it can occur. It happens when a seemingly healthy infant collapses and shows these warning signs :

• Becomes pale, blue or gray • Stops breathing • Becomes unstable or unresponsive

SUPC may be related to holding your baby in a risky position during skin-to-skin. For safety, make sure that you’re alert and semi-reclined or sitting upright and that your baby continues to breathe easily. If you notice any signs of distress, tell your nurse or health care provider immediately! It’s important to keep an eye on your baby during skin-to-skin. Distractions from phones and visitors often take more time and attention than you might think. Distractions can wait. Always make your baby’s well-being your top priority.

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Your Guide to Postpartum and Newborn Care