Optimizing your “Golden Hour”
Imagine you’ve just run a marathon. The sense of accomplishment washes over you, and you want to savor this moment for as long as possible. You catch your breath, stretch, and soak in the victory. Now, think about birth—a much more intense, rewarding, and powerful experience (sorry runners, you’ve got nothing on mommas!). The same concept applies: you’ve just completed the biggest, longest, most empowering “marathon” of your life. These moments are sacred. We don’t want to rush; we want to embrace every detail and cherish each first with your precious newborn. We call these moments your Golden Hour.
At The Addice, we’re dedicated to optimizing your Golden Hour to ensure it reflects everything Mom and baby desire for bonding. To make this time as special as possible, we encourage moms to include a few key elements in their birth plans. By setting clear expectations, we can help create the best experience for your family during these unforgettable moments.
Welcoming Baby
Your midwife will encourage you to touch your baby’s tiny, soft head as they emerge, giving both parents the chance to bring their little one to Mom’s chest. If desired, your birth team will support you in catching your baby, honoring the sacred experience of birth by maintaining a calm and quiet atmosphere. We’ll wait to clamp and cut the umbilical cord until the placenta detaches on its own, allowing your baby to practice breathing air for the first time without rushing the process. At The Addice, it’s standard care to leave your baby attached to the umbilical cord until it’s white and limp, unless you choose to cord blood bank or decide that delayed cord clamping isn’t the best option for you. Whatever you desire, we’re here to support you!
Skin-to-Skin Contact
Uninterrupted skin-to-skin contact with either parent is highly encouraged, especially during the first two hours after birth. This is precious time for both baby and parent, as it promotes bonding, regulates the baby’s temperature, and supports healthy heart rates and breathing. Skin-to-skin contact also enhances breastfeeding success by stimulating the baby’s natural instincts to nurse, leading to earlier and more effective latching!! Moreover, this intimate connection fosters a sense of security for your little one, reducing stress and promoting emotional well-being. For parents, it’s a beautiful opportunity to bond and connect with their newborn, count all those perfect tiny toes, memorize those sweet details & create a foundation of love and trust that lasts a lifetime.
Breastfeeding Support
While breastfeeding is a natural process, it can also come with its challenges. That’s why we’re here to help! We offer comprehensive education before birth, preparing you with the knowledge and confidence you need. Once your baby arrives, our team provides immediate support to assist with that all-important first latch and continues to guide you through the first six weeks of breastfeeding. We understand that every journey is unique, so our commitment to you includes unlimited postpartum appointments! This ensures you receive personalized care and support during this crucial time, helping you navigate any hurdles and celebrate your successes. Our goal is to make your breastfeeding experience as smooth and joyful as possible, fostering a strong connection between you and your little one.
From the first contraction to those sweet first snuggles, your journey matters to us. We’re dedicated to creating a fun and nurturing environment that celebrates every moment of this adventure. Let’s make your Golden Hour unforgettable!!! Schedule your initial consultation or a birth center tour!