Golden Hour: The Magical Hour After Birth

Your baby has just been born—congratulations! They may be looking at you with big, amazed eyes, and you’re diving into those beautiful eyes for the first time. It’s a moment of bliss. It’s also the beginning of the “golden hour”: the first hour following birth. During this period, it’s recommended that you stay in close contact—ideally skin-to-skin—with your baby, as this fosters emotional bonding, encourages early breastfeeding, and facilitates a smooth transition from intrauterine to extrauterine life. But what happens during this golden hour?

Mother-child bonding

Skin-to-skin contact promotes the release of oxytocin, a hormone that strengthens the emotional bond between mother and child and also supports the delivery of the placenta.

Early breastfeeding

Newborns are often more alert and receptive to breastfeeding during this initial period, which can help facilitate a successful start. Their sense of smell is highly developed, while their vision is not very precise—making it easier for them to locate the breast.

Baby stabilization

The baby is often calmer and more alert, allowing for close monitoring of their condition and ensuring they adapt well to their new environment.

Temperature regulation

Skin-to-skin contact helps regulate the baby’s body temperature. They are coming from an environment at 37°C, which is quite different from the cooler room they are in now.

However, a few safety rules must be followed:

The baby must have good extrauterine adaptation and be breathing autonomously. Their airways should be clear, and their head must remain uncovered.
You and your baby should be naked, chest to chest.
You must be awake and accompanied by someone.
Your baby should wear a hat and be covered with a blanket to prevent heat loss.

Your partner will have to wait a few more minutes before holding the baby. However, they can observe this unique moment and discreetly capture it with a few photos—perhaps even immortalize it.

If the golden hour doesn’t go as planned

In some cases, immediate skin-to-skin contact isn’t possible—due to medical needs, a cesarean birth, or the baby’s condition. While this may feel disappointing, it’s important to remember that meaningful bonding can still happen in many ways and over time. The early days and weeks offer plenty of opportunities for closeness, connection, and care. The foundation of your relationship with your baby is built gradually, not in a single hour.
Trust that every loving moment you share helps strengthen that bond ❤

If you’re experiencing any challenges or have questions in preparation for—or during—your postpartum period, please don’t hesitate to reach out for support. You’re not alone, and there are professionals ready to help you navigate this important time. Visit Parentaly.nl to connect with: