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Skin-to-Skin contact can trigger an oxytocin rush in both the baby and the mother. Oxytocin, often referred to as the "love hormone" or "bonding hormone," plays a significant role in breastfeeding and the emotional connection between a mother and her baby.

When a baby is held close to the mother's skin, especially in the early postpartum period, both the baby and the mother may experience an increase in oxytocin levels. This surge of oxytocin can have several important effects:

• Milk ejection reflex: Oxytocin is responsible for the milk ejection reflex, which helps in the release of milk from the mother's breasts. When the baby latches onto the breast during skin-to-skin contact, the sensory stimulation and close physical connection can trigger the release of oxytocin, facilitating milk flow.
• Bonding and Emotional Connection: Oxytocin is closely associated with emotional bonding and attachment. It promotes feelings of love, trust, and affection. Skin-to-skin contact and the resulting oxytocin release enhance the emotional connection between the mother and her baby.
• Calming and Stress Reduction: Oxytocin has a calming effect on both the mother and the baby. It can reduce stress and anxiety levels, promoting a sense of relaxation and wellbeing. This can be particularly helpful for newborns and their mothers during breastfeeding.
• Promotion of Trust: Oxytocin fosters trust and feelings of security, which are essential for a successful breastfeeding experience. When both the mother and the baby experience increased oxytocin levels during skin-to-skin contact, it strengthens their bond and trust, making breastfeeding more effective and comfortable.

When breastfeeding isn't going quite right I recommend you go back to basics and factor in skin-to-skin time. When breastfeeding is going well I still highly recommend spending a part of the day or some feeds enjoying skin to skin, whether that is a later get up or an afternoon nap or bedtime.

In summary, skin-to-skin contact is a beautiful practice that can create an oxytocin rush, enhancing the breastfeeding experience and nurturing the emotional connection between the mother and her baby. It really is a magical aspect of the intimate relationship between a mother and her newborn.

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