The Benefits of Skin-to-Skin Contact Beyond the Newborn Stage

When you think of skin-to-skin, you probably picture a just-born baby laying on mama’s chest in the delivery room. But here’s something many moms don’t realize: the benefits of skin-to-skin don’t stop after the first few days.

In fact, skin-to-skin contact can offer powerful emotional, physiological, and developmental support for weeks and months—and yes, even well into toddlerhood.

Let’s dive into why you may want to keep the cuddles going🤗

💞 What Is Skin-to-Skin Contact, Exactly?

Skin-to-skin means placing your baby (wearing only a diaper) directly on your bare chest. This promotes closeness, comfort, and a unique form of communication between you and your child—without saying a word.

While it’s often encouraged immediately after birth, continuing skin-to-skin beyond the newborn phase can still:

Strengthen your bond
Improve breastfeeding
Calm an overstimulated baby
Support emotional growth

🌱 The Benefits Beyond the Newborn Stage

1. Boosts Bonding

Holding your baby close releases oxytocin, aka the “love hormone.” This deepens your connection and builds a secure attachment—especially important as your baby starts to explore the world.

2. Supports Breastfeeding

Skin-to-skin can help regulate milk supply and even re-engage a distracted or fussy feeder. If you're combo feeding or experiencing a dip in supply, cuddling skin-to-skin can reawaken your baby’s natural instincts to nurse.

Pair this with a comfy, easy-access nursing bra (like ours at Bloom & Heal!) to make spontaneous feeds even easier.

3. Calms Big Emotions

As babies grow, so do their emotions. When your baby is fussy, overtired, or overstimulated, skin-to-skin can help lower their heart rate, reduce stress, and bring a sense of calm.

4. Promotes Brain Development

Physical closeness promotes neural growth and emotional regulation in developing brains. The more responsive and nurturing the touch, the more supported your baby’s emotional wiring becomes.

5. Soothes You, Too

Skin-to-skin isn’t just for your baby. You benefit too—with lower stress levels, improved postpartum recovery, and a reminder that you’re still connected, even in chaotic moments.

How to Practice Skin-to-Skin With Older Babies

After baths: Wrap yourselves together with a towel or robe, chest to chest.
Before or after feeds: Let your baby rest on your chest for a few moments, diaper-only.
During naps: Lay down together and snuggle skin-to-skin.
In a wrap or sling: Use a baby carrier without a shirt at home.

Your baby may be getting bigger, but the need for connection is still there.

Skin-to-skin isn’t just a newborn trend—it’s a lifelong comfort tool that helps you both feel seen, safe, and soothed. Whether you’re breastfeeding, pumping, or simply holding them close, that skin-to-skin magic is always welcome.

💗 Looking for more real, judgment-free support through motherhood? Visit the Bloom & Heal Maternity blog for heartfelt guidance, body-loving tips, and tools to help you thrive.