Skin-to-skin contact

Midwives recommend skin-to-skin contact with your baby as soon as possible after her birth.

‘ In the seconds after birth, skin-to-skin contact is the best way to warm up your baby,' says midwife Nikki Khan. ‘And as she lies on your tummy, she'll hear your familiar heartbeat.'

If your baby needs resuscitation or special care, that can be delayed. But the sooner you can cuddle up, the better.

Says Nikki: ‘Although she can't see you clearly, she'll make out the shadow of your face and hear your voice. This helps with bonding and then, in many cases, the next natural step is to breastfeed for the first time.'

Skin-to-skin contact between baby and dad is also important as it is an important way of promoting bonding and also feelings of security and well-being. 

Massage is another good way to get close, and dads can also join in. Nikkki suggests you bathe your baby, then take a break while your partner gives her a gentle massage.

• Read Baby Massage For Beginners by Peter Walker (Carroll & Brown, £6.99).
  

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