Bystrovaetal. (2009) found that mother–infant separation
during the first 2 hours after birth is associated with less
infant self-regulation, and decreased maternal sensitivity
and attachment that is not compensated by rooming-in.
A critical role for nurses is to advocate for patients
and families in situations where breastfeeding practices
are not evidence-based, such as after cesarean births. Although
research suggests that early STS contact is key
to successful breastfeeding initiation, its use immediately
after healthy cesarean birth is rare. Our experience
shows that it is feasible to improve the quality of care
after cesarean birth in a relatively short period. Nurses
can be leaders in changing practice to incorporate early
STS contact into regular cesarean care for mothers and
infants by ensuring that the routine care after cesarean
births is family-centered and research-based.