The Golden Hour: Meeting Your Baby For The First Time

Golden Hour

Woah mama! You did it! You delivered your baby and brought them earthside. We now have the opportunity for the golden hour. The golden hour is the first hour after your baby is born. This may look different for everyone based on your preferences, where you give birth and how. Many mothers will have their babies lay on their chest just skin-to-skin and initiate breastfeeding. If left unbothered the newborn will do a breast crawl so they can latch and begin breastfeeding also. 

C-section

If you have a cesarean section you can request the golden hour but some hospitals will not allow it. However you can still have your golden hour after the procedure.

Vaginal Birth in A hospital

If you have a vaginal birth in the hospital you can request a golden hour and delay newborn exams, wiping down the baby, etc. This may be something you and your partner advocate for depending on the hospital. You do not have to delay these things and can still have your golden hour after these things are done also.

In-home or birth center

If you have a vaginal birth in a birth center or at home. The golden hour is standard and your provider will only perform tasks that are necessary or requested immediately after childbirth. 

Preferences

Every mother will have her preferences on if she would like to delay cord clamping, delay wiping down the baby, delayed newborn assessments, etc. These should all be researched prior to birth so you can make informed decisions for you and your baby. 

Golden Hour in your birth plan

Another important aspect is discussing your preferences with your provider prior to birth. Every provider will have different views and suggestions. Expressing your preferences can help get important information and conversations out of the way prior to birth. The golden hour and the preferences you have for your golden hour should be written out in your birth plan so your care team is aware and informed.

This is not medical advice, please contact a trusted healthcare provider for medical advice and information