What is the Golden Hour? 💛 Homegrown Family Doula

So, you’ve spent nine long months anticipating the arrival of your baby, and now the big moment is finally here—you’ve given birth! But now what? After all the excitement of labor and delivery, what happens in those first few hours of your baby’s life? What’s the importance of these precious moments? This is what you can expect, and how you can make informed choices for your baby’s first hours in the world.

Let’s take a moment to set the stage. Imagine you’ve just welcomed your baby into the world. You’re exhausted, overwhelmed with emotion, and maybe still catching your breath from the intensity of childbirth. But here’s the truth: the first three hours after birth are a crucial time for you and your baby to bond, begin the process of breastfeeding, and establish a foundation of trust and care. These moments are not just "busy work" or routine procedures—they’re foundational to the immediate health and well-being of both you and your baby.

Take the story of one of my clients, who, after a long labor, had a beautiful birth with a calm and peaceful delivery. She was well-prepared for the moment her baby arrived. She knew that the first few hours were essential for breastfeeding, skin-to-skin contact, and establishing a deep bond. The hospital staff respected her wishes for delayed cord clamping, and immediately placed her baby on her chest for skin-to-skin. This simple act led to immediate success with breastfeeding, a stronger connection with her baby, and a quicker recovery process.

I’ve also seen cases where moms weren't as informed about the Golden Hour and felt overwhelmed by the sheer number of medical interventions that take place right after birth—routine eye drops, the vitamin K shot, weighing and measuring the baby, and more. These procedures can sometimes feel like they take away from the opportunity for quiet bonding. That’s why understanding what happens in those first moments and being empowered to make decisions is so important.

So, what actually happens in those first few hours after birth? While it varies a bit depending on the hospital, your birth team, and your own preferences, here’s a general overview of what you can expect:

1. Immediate Bonding (Skin-to-Skin Contact) 

   The first thing your baby needs is you! As long as there are no medical reasons to interrupt it, your baby should be placed directly on your chest for skin-to-skin contact. This is a powerful moment of bonding and a great way to regulate your baby’s body temperature and heart rate. It also stimulates your baby’s instincts to breastfeed.

2. Delayed Cord Clamping

   If it’s safe for both mom and baby, delayed cord clamping can be a great option. This allows some of the blood from the placenta to transfer to your baby before the cord is cut, helping with your baby’s circulation and iron stores.

3. Breastfeeding

   After the birth, one of the best things you can do is offer your baby the breast as soon as possible. Even if you don’t plan to breastfeed long-term, this early initiation of breastfeeding is important for both you and your baby. The first milk, called colostrum, is rich in nutrients and antibodies, giving your baby a solid start to life.

4. Medical Procedures 

   During the first few hours, the medical team will need to perform some routine procedures, such as:

   - Weighing and measuring the baby

   - Administering eye drops to prevent eye infections

   - Vitamin K shot to help your baby’s blood clot properly

   - Possible stitches for any perineal tearing (if applicable)

   If you are having a hospital birth, your baby will likely receive these standard care measures. It’s always a good idea to discuss these procedures with your care provider beforehand to ensure you are informed and can make decisions aligned with your preferences.  

Now that birth is behind you, I hope you feel aware of the importance of the first hours after birth. These moments are not only vital for physical bonding but also for emotional and psychological well-being. Giving yourself permission to take things slowly and honor the time with your baby is one of the most beautiful gifts you can give yourself and your baby.

Mama, you are in control. The baby you birth is yours, and you know it best. While your medical team is there to support you, you are the expert on your own birth experience. Trust yourself, make informed decisions, and know that these first hours are yours to cherish and protect. You’ve got this!

Need More Guidance on Your Birth Plan?

As your homegrown family doula, I’m here to help you navigate your choices and ensure that your birth experience is as empowering as possible. Reach out, and let’s talk about how we can make these early moments as smooth and beautiful as they deserve to be! Email me at lynette@homegrownfamiydoula.com or call / text 807-276-9042