Why is the newborn's first bath typically delayed?

Delaying the newborn's first bath until the temperature is stable is important for several reasons. Immediately after birth, a newborn's body is adjusting to the transition from the controlled environment of the womb to the external world. The newborn may be prone to hypothermia due to the loss of heat through evaporation when wet, especially with the bath introducing additional exposure to cooler air.

By monitoring and ensuring that the newborn's temperature is stable prior to the bath, healthcare providers can minimize the risk of temperature instability, promoting the infant's overall wellbeing. Additionally, it allows time for the newborn to undergo necessary assessments and bonding with the mother, which are also significant aspects of postnatal care. Overall, the focus on maintaining temperature stability helps safeguard the newborn's health during this vulnerable period.