The birth of a baby is one of life’s most wondrous moments. Few experiences compare to this event. Newborn babies have amazing abilities, such as being able to recognize their own mother’s voice and know her unique scent, yet they are dependent on others for feeding, warmth and comfort. Amazing physical changes occur with birth. When the baby is delivered, the umbilical cord is cut and clamped near the navel. This ends the baby’s dependence on the placenta for oxygen and nutrition. The baby’s blood flow changes so more blood now goes to his/her lungs to support breathing and oxygenation. Mother’s milk is now the most optimal source of nutrition and your breasts will produce colostrum to give a nutrient-rich first meal within the first hour after birth. A newborn baby is wet from the amniotic fluid and can easily become cold. Drying the baby and placing a baby skin-to-skin on the mother’s chest or abdomen is the best way to keep the baby stable and warm. This early skin-to-skin contact also reduces crying, improves motherinfant bonding and helps mothers and babies be more successful at breastfeeding. If a baby cannot be skin-to-skin with mother or father, a warm blanket or a heat lamp will be used to provide warmth. newborn care
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