Bethesda Hospital - a pioneer in bonding

"Skin contact, body heat and tender touch between mother and child release oxytocin, which is also known as the love or bonding hormone," says Dr Cyril Lüdin, paediatrician at Bethesda Hospital Basel. It is therefore important that skin-to-skin contact is as early, intensive and prolonged as possible. Thanks to the optimal interprofessional collaboration at Bethesda Spital Basel, this is also possible in the case of a caesarean section. "We are constantly adapting our processes in the postnatal ward to create an atmosphere that promotes bonding by providing as much peace and quiet as possible for mother and child," emphasises Dr Cyril Lüdin. The professional groups involved, consisting of midwives, nursing staff, breastfeeding consultants, gynaecologists and paediatricians, act as a team that focuses on the special needs of young families.

Skin on skin - philosophy for over 20 years

Becoming a mum is one of the most beautiful and exciting experiences in a woman's life. However, new mums are often unsure about how much and for how long they should wear their baby on their body. "We advise mums to wear their baby skin-to-skin immediately after the birth and for as long as possible afterwards. The aim is to build up an intensive bond with eye contact between child and parents right from the start," says Ute Richter, Head of the Postnatal Department at Bethesda Hospital Basel. This bond is strengthened through closeness, smell, heartbeat, warmth and the first latching on to the breast. The benefits for the baby are the promotion of basic trust, peaceful sleep, easier adaptation to the outside world, better temperature regulation and support for breastfeeding. The mother benefits from this,

the mother benefits from the fact that milk production is promoted and recovery after the birth is accelerated. It also reduces the perception of pain and increases emotional balance.

"I have the feeling that young parents worry a little more these days," says the experienced midwife. She believes that today's flood of information unsettles many families. "I therefore always recommend listening to your gut feeling - that way nothing can really go wrong." Women should also say goodbye to the expectation that they will be fit as a fiddle one or two days after the birth. "The recovery phase lasts several weeks - and rightly so, because giving birth is a feat of strength," says Ute Richter.

Secure bonding already in the womb

A first form of bonding already takes place in the womb before the birth. Quiet "couch time" in conscious contact with the child in the womb, yoga and breathing exercises, music and the voices of family members can strengthen the bond even during pregnancy. It is also important to eliminate any uncertainties that may arise during pregnancy. "Even before the birth, we offer various preparation courses at Bethesda Hospital Basel." From the 12th week, there are also midwife consultations and courses in German, English or Italian, where pregnant women can receive professional advice and talk about their wishes and concerns