Factors affecting the quality of mother-infant first contact after vaginal delivery

Abstract Aim. The primary objective of this study was to assess the influence of various factors on the first contact of mother and her infant in Warsaw’s maternity facilities. Material and methods. For this study, direct observation was performed. Research material was collected using original observation survey, specifically designed for this study. Study was conducted in 11 Warsaw’s maternity facilities of varied referral level. Results. The contact was the longest (between 91 and 120 minutes) if there were fewer people present in the delivery room during birth (p<0.001). Infant was placed on mother’s chest immediately after delivery if there were fewer people present in the delivery room (p<0.001). Infant examination took place more than 2 hours after birth if there were fewer people present in the delivery room (p<0.001). Conclusions. Mother-infant first contact was the longest and was initiated immediately after delivery if there were fewer people present in the delivery room and if a midwife was a sole provider of care.