Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic has created unforeseen challenges for pregnant mothers and their newborn babies. During the height of the pandemic, a new global study found that most babies born to mothers with COVID-19 were separated after birth, resulting in low breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact rates. This article will discuss the findings of the study, the impact it has had on mother-baby bonding, and steps that can be taken to ensure safe breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact for mothers and babies affected by COVID-19. Findings of the Study The study, which was published in The Lancet, surveyed more than 21,000 mothers and babies in 10 different countries. The results showed that mothers with COVID-19 had significantly lower rates of skin-to-skin contact, breastfeeding, and other mother-baby bonding activities than those without the virus. Specifically, 77% of mothers with COVID-19 reported a skin-to-skin contact rate of less than 15 minutes, compared to only 35% of those without the virus. As for breastfeeding, the results showed that 27% of the mothers with COVID-19 had never breastfed their babies, compared to just 8% of those without the virus. Impact of Separation The study indicates that babies born to mothers with COVID-19 are being deprived of the important benefits of breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact. These types of contact are essential for regulating a baby's temperature, and for establishing a strong emotional bond between mother and child. Furthermore, there is evidence that these activities can help reduce the risk of postpartum depression and anxiety in mothers. In light of this information, it is clear that the separation of babies from their mothers is having a deleterious effect on the early stages of mother-baby bonding. The impact of this separation is likely to be felt far beyond the immediate effects, as babies missing out on early bonding can lead to long-term cognitive and emotional development problems. Safe Breastfeeding and Skin-to-Skin Contact Given the importance of breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact, it is essential that steps are taken to ensure these activities can continue safely during the pandemic. The first step is to ensure that adequate protective gear is provided for both the mother and the baby. This should include masks, gowns, and gloves for the mother, as well as covering for the baby. The second step is to ensure that the mother and baby are kept as close together as possible when breastfeeding or having skin-to-skin contact. This means that the baby should be kept in a bassinet or crib near the mother, and any breastfeeding should be done with the baby in the mother's arms. The third step is to ensure that the mother and baby are properly monitored during contact. This includes monitoring the baby’s temperature, respiration, and heart rate, as well as regular testing of the baby for COVID-19. Conclusion The findings of the study demonstrate the importance of breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact for developing a healthy emotional bond between mother and baby. The separation of babies from their mothers due to COVID-19 can have long-term negative effects, and steps must be taken to ensure that these activities can continue in a safe manner. By providing proper protective gear, keeping babies near their mothers, and monitoring mother-baby contact, it is possible to ensure that breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact can occur safely during the pandemic.
https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-medical-news/most-babies-born-to-mothers-with-covid-19-were-separated-after-birth-resulting-in-low-breastfeeding-rates
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