Bonding is when you begin to feel a deep connection and feelings of unconditional love for your baby. Bonding often begins right after birth when you hold your baby or breast or bottle feed for the first time. If you aren’t able to do this right away, don’t worry. Bonding is a gradual process that happens over your baby’s first year of life.
Bonding time with your baby is important. It is good for your baby to hear your voice, look into your eyes and feel your touch. Several minutes of skin-to-skin contact with your newborn aids in bonding. It is good for babies and parents, too. Enjoy them while they are little — it will not last long!
Postpartum depression or the “baby blues” can impact bonding. Contact your provider if you feel you have these conditions. (See Postpartum depression and baby blues).