Child health specialists have said delaying bathing babies for at least six hours after birth protects them from infections and cold besides other proven health benefits.
The paediatricians explained that during the first few hours after birth, the babies were still adjusting to the outside environment, and bathing them immediately disrupted their natural physiological processes, such as temperature regulation and hormonal balance.
The physicians clarified that the protective vernix caseosa, a creamy substance that covers a baby’s skin in the womb, helps to regulate the baby’s body temperature, provides moisture, and contains antimicrobial properties that shield the baby from infections.
The experts also stressed that delaying the bath allows for essential bonding time between the newborn and the parents, facilitating skin-to-skin contact that promotes attachment and breastfeeding.
A study by the International Childbirth Education Association shows that delaying the bath of a baby after birth could have a significant impact on the newborn’s survival.
The ICEA encouraged parents and care providers to embrace the practice, emphasising that it was endorsed by regulating bodies and, when done right, remains safe for families and care providers.
“Delaying bathing for at least eight hours after birth protects the newborn’s skin from bacterial invasion, keeps their skin conditioned, and keeps their blood sugar stable since bathing might lower their temperature and often cause the baby to cry, both of which can promote hypoglycemia,” it added.
