Daniela Miklovičová, Lucia Kantorová, Mária Hajzoková
Skin-to-skin contact of babies with their mothers immediately following birth for at least an hour (STS) is a recommended
evidence based practice in support of postnatal adaptation and stabilization. It decreases maternal and infant stress
and is elementary for successful breastfeeding initiation.
The aim of the study was to retrospectively analyze immediate postnatal care of newborns from the mothers’ perspective
and to determine an association between STS and exclusive breastfeeding during hospital stay. Influence of prenatal
classes on STS was also studied.
Methods: Responses regarding prenatal classes as well as breastfeeding support of 320 mothers who gave birth in Bratislava
in 2008 – 2013 were analyzed.
Results: STS was practiced in 6.9 % of cases, all of the deliveries with STS being vaginal. Prenatal classes had no influence
on STS. 37.8 % of all newborns were exclusively breastfed during hospital stay, the positive impact of STS and
vaginal birth being statistically significant.
Conclusion: The study confirmed a significant impact of STS on exclusive breastfeeding rate during hospital stay. The
results indicate inadequate support of physiological processes after delivery and persistent practice of mother – infant
separation with its consequences.