1. Thermoregulation: Newborns often struggle to maintain their body temperature. Skin contact helps to keep them warm, reducing the risk of hypothermia. 2. Cardiorespiratory Stability: Direct contact with the mother's skin helps to stabilize the baby's heart rate and breathing. 3. Blood Sugar Levels: Skin contact can help to regulate the baby's blood sugar levels, which is particularly important for *preterm infants*. 4. Breastfeeding Initiation: Babies placed on their mother's chest are more likely to latch on and begin breastfeeding effectively. 5. Reduced Stress: Skin contact has been shown to lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol in newborns.
