What’s the significance of the "golden hour" after birth?

The golden hour after birth is a critically important period that emphasizes the significance of immediate skin-to-skin contact between the newborn and the parent, particularly the mother. During this time, the baby is often alert and actively seeking to bond with the parent, which facilitates attachment and emotional connection. This period is also crucial for initiating breastfeeding, as the baby is naturally inclined to root and suckle, helping to establish breastfeeding more effectively.

This connection laid down during the golden hour contributes to numerous benefits, including promoting the baby's physiological stability, encouraging milk production in the mother, and enhancing the emotional wellbeing of both the parent and the newborn. Overall, the golden hour sets the stage for a healthy start to the baby's life and helps strengthen family bonds.