Dr. William Sears explains that the moments immediately following delivery are critical for mother-baby bonding. He says, "Bonding is really a continuation of the relationship that began during pregnancy... Birth cements this bond and gives it reality." Baby has been growing inside of mom for nine months. Leaving that warm, secure environment can be traumatic. He needs to be held close and to hear a loving, familiar voice. Mothers, too, benefit from early bonding. Immediately following childbirth, mothers are feeling extremely nurturing toward their baby and they need to be free to express those maternal feelings. Sometimes, however, this early bonding is not possible. Don’t despair if medical circumstances keep you from bonding at birth. There are ways to make up for this lost time and we will discuss that in a later week.
Breastfeeding
Numerous studies have shown that breastmilk is best for baby. However, the act of breastfeeding is also beneficial. Babies thrive on skin-to-skin contact. It makes them feel safe and secure. When possible, breastfeeding should begin immediately after delivery. This is an important part of birth bonding. Breastfeeding helps mom, as well. Breastfeeding helps the uterus return quickly to its pre-pregnancy size, as well as other benefits that we will discuss in later weeks.
Responding to Baby
This is probably the most important aspect of AP. A newborn has very few communication skills—he cries to signal his every need. When we respond quickly to these cries, we teach him to trust. We teach him that he is safe, secure, and loved. We teach him that we are willing to listen to him and try to understand him. We teach him that he is worthy of being heard. On the other hand, some “experts” tell parents to ignore baby’s cries for food. They advise parents to get baby on a “feeding schedule.” This idea is contrary to AP.