Bonding is an ongoing process, not a one-shot deal.
It refers to the emotional attachment formed between
baby and its caregiver. Some people are of the opinion
that bonding begins even before birth.
Ways to bond with Baby
Spending time with baby, meeting and responding to
all her needs strengthens your bond.
• Lie on your side on the bed with baby facing
you. Hold your baby close so he can feel your breath
on his face. Sing or talk to baby as you gently stroke
or massage his skin.
• Hold your baby so his head snuggles under
your chin. Sway together or rock him.
• Lie on the floor or bed with baby on your
chest, bare skin to bare skin. Turn his head to the
side so he can hear your heartbeat. Enjoy this closeness
with your baby.
Daily care strengthens
the bond:
Bonding in the delivery room is wonderful and helps
parents connect with baby but if delivery complications
delays this experience, don't panic. The process can
begin even days after birth and it will continue for
a long while, through the daily care you give.
Bonding has a physical
aspect:
Bonding goes beyond emotional attachment to include
physical bonding. It is good for you because it stimulates
the production of prolactin and oxytocin, two hormones
that bring out the maternal instincts in you. Bonding
also keeps your baby's hormones in balance.
Feeding and bonding:
If you breast-feed, your bond develops through the
feeding process. If you bottle-feed, let the father
feed to strengthen their bond. Bottle feeding can
build closer bonds if you:
• snuggle baby close to you during feeding and
look into her eyes while you talk or sing to baby
• feed in a comfortable position or place e.g.
a rocking chair
• heat formula to body temperature
• hold the bottle for baby and never leave baby
alone with bottle
Point of concern:
When your baby lies on his side, the side he was lying
on is red while the other side is a paler shade. This
difference is caused by immature blood vessels and
will soon disappear.
