Delayed Bathing

International Childbirth Education Association (ICEA) encourages evidencebased information for decision making around pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and new parenting. Recent research has shown that delaying the first bath after birth can have significant impact on the newborn transition and early breastfeeding. Because of this research, we encourage parents and care providers to look at delaying the first bath as an option. This practice is endorsed by regulating bodies and when done right is safe for families and care providers.