Bonding with Baby After C-Section

After a C-section birth, how long will I have to wait before I can bond with my child (breastfeeding, skin-on-skin contact, holding my baby)?

The answer may depend on the reason for your C-section birth, as each situation brings its own unique recovery needs. Many times moms can have what is referred to as a Family Centered C-section Birth. That means the drape that normally separates you from the surgeons can be lowered and you can see the baby being born. The baby can then be brought to you by the nurse and can be placed skin to skin on your chest. If this is not possible, many times you can have skin-to-skin contact with your baby in the recovery room after surgery.

Not being able to bond with your child immediately following labor can be an emotional experience. However, there are tips and tricks to increase the bonding experience. In the operating room, while physicians may still be finishing up the surgery, you may be able to begin skin-on-skin contact with your child right after the baby has been examined.

After the surgery you may be in the hospital for a few days. The baby will be rooming in with you, so you can have continuous contact with the baby.

The first few times walking, instead of carrying the baby, you can place the baby in the bassinette. During your recovery from surgery, you may require some help in holding your baby. There are many positions for breastfeeding that will not put pressure on your incision. Lactation consultants and nurses are available to give you good advice on how to do this.

Again, each C-section birth is different, depending on the reason the C-section was needed and the condition of mom and baby after the birth. The medical professionals working with new moms are sensitive to the desire for bonding with your newborn - let them know your wishes and they can work with you on this goal.