The first hour following birth—often referred to as the “golden hour”—is a powerful and sensitive transition time for both mother and baby. During this time, the foundations of lifelong health, bonding, and nutrition are laid. The golden hour holds many benefits for both mother and baby.
Breastfeeding during the first hour creates a bridge between the womb and the outside world. It has multiple benefits for the new baby. It helps to regulate the baby’s body temperature, heart rate, and blood sugar. This provides stability after the transition from the womb. The mother's milk, known as colostrum, is rich in antibodies and nutrients supporting the baby's immune system. It provides protection against infection, particularly gastrointestinal and respiratory illnesses. Supporting the baby's digestive system, colostrum helps with the passage of meconium and reduces the risk of jaundice.
Babies breastfed early also have long-term health impacts. Early breastfeeding reduces the risk of chronic illnesses in babies, including conditions like obesity, type 2 diabetes, and certain allergies later in life. Studies suggest that early breastfeeding may also positively influence brain development and cognitive performance as the child grows.
There is a psychological and emotional bond between mother and baby. Skin-to-skin contact fosters emotional bonding and helps initiate a sense of security for the baby. Oxytocin, the "love hormone," is released in both mother and baby during breastfeeding, which enhances maternal instincts and reduces stress. This can be a huge help in relaxing the mother after giving birth.
Breastfeeding during the first hour also has health benefits for the mother. Immediate breastfeeding helps contract the uterus, reducing postpartum bleeding and promoting recovery. The emotional bonding and hormonal regulation can reduce the mother's risk of postpartum depression. Starting breastfeeding early helps establish a healthy milk supply, a concern of most new mothers.
The World Health Organization and UNICEF advocate breastfeeding within the first hour as a key intervention for reducing infant mortality. In regions with limited access to clean water and healthcare, breastfeeding not only nourishes – it saves lives.
The Women, Infants, and Children organization (WIC) has long championed the importance of breastfeeding, especially during the golden hour. Through education, peer counseling, and access to lactation consultants, WIC empowers mothers to make informed decisions about infant feeding. By removing economic and educational barriers, WIC bridges the theoretical benefits of early breastfeeding and the successful lived realities for millions of families. WIC ensures that no family has to navigate this journey alone.
In essence, breastfeeding in the first hour is not just a feeding act—it is a biological and emotional initiation into life. It empowers mothers and protects infants, forming a lifeline that ripples through the entire life course. Prioritizing and supporting this practice, especially in hospital and birth settings, is one of the most impactful steps toward holistic, compassionate health care.
August is Breastfeeding Awareness Month. Got breastfeeding questions? Contact WIC!
Christie Clark is a mom who breastfed her three children while participating in the WIC Program. She is now a WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor who shares her passion by helping moms achieve their goals on their breastfeeding journeys.
