Final answer:
Immediate breastfeeding after birth is essential as it provides antibodies and nutrients to the newborn, enhancing passive immunity and promoting the establishment of intestinal flora.
Step-by-step explanation:
What is very important to do between the mother and baby directly after birth is immediate breastfeeding. The act of breastfeeding soon after birth is crucial as it not only provides essential nutrients and hydration but also transfers important antibodies from the mother to the infant. These antibodies are part of the colostrum, the first form of milk produced, which helps boost the newborn's immune system. This is a form of passive immunity, which is different from the active immunity where the immune response is developed in the body itself. The colostrum and subsequent breast milk also introduce beneficial bacteria to the infant's sterile gastrointestinal tract, aiding in digestion and further supporting the baby's immune system.
Another significant postnatal stage is the infant's first breath that leads to major adjustments in the circulatory system. This process helps in closing the cardiac shunts that bypassed the lungs during fetal life. Moreover, the intake of breast milk initiates the establishment of intestinal flora, which is essential for the infant's digestion.
The direct contact and the act of breastfeeding also contribute to establishing an emotional bond between the mother and the baby, which is critical for the baby's emotional development.