Meet Clare O’Brien
Midwife, Research Lead & BioGaia Ambassador
With over 11 years of NHS experience in clinical midwifery and research, Clare O’Brien is a leading UK voice in maternity and reproductive health. A sought-after speaker and consultant, she’s passionate about turning research into real-world guidance for parents.
3 expert tips for giving your newborn the healthiest start in life – with Clare O-Brien
At BioGaia, we understand that the first few hours after birth are crucial in laying the foundations for a healthy, happy future. Research has identified three key natural actions that can significantly improve newborn health outcomes. The best part? These steps are simple, achievable, and supported in most birthing environments today.
Whilst these actions are mostly supported in hospital trusts across the UK, there are some key differences in what the research says and what some trust guidelines recommend. By knowing the difference, you can advocate for yourself and your baby to ensure you maximise each of the health benefits.
1. Delayed Cord Clamping: A Natural Boost for Your Baby’s Health
Delaying the clamping of your baby’s umbilical cord immediately after birth has proven benefits. The placenta and cord continue to transfer oxygen and nutrient-rich blood to your baby in the moments after birth, helping with the transition to life outside the womb.
Why it matters:
- Increases baby’s blood volume by 20-25%
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Boosts iron levels, reducing the risk of anaemia before weaning
Provides stem cells that aid tissue repair and immune system development
Supports oxygenation of the heart and lungs - While most UK hospitals practise at least one-minute delayed cord clamping, research suggests waiting until the cord turns white and flat (typically -5 minutes) ensures maximum benefits.
Parents can discuss this preference with their midwife to ensure their baby receives the full advantage of cord blood.
2. Skin-to-Skin Contact: Regulating and Bonding
Uninterrupted skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth has a powerful effect on both mother and baby. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends at least 90 minutes of uninterrupted skin-to-skin contact, as it helps regulate:
- Heart rate and breathing
- Body temperature
- Blood sugar levels
- Breastfeeding success and bonding
In the UK, The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends skin-to-skin contact, but does not specify a timeframe. Many hospital trusts follow a guideline of just one hour. Parents can choose to continue skin-to-skin beyond this, declining interruptions such as weighing the baby until after the initial bonding period.
If a mother is unwell after birth, partners or birth companions can step in to provide skin-to-skin, ensuring the baby still receives these crucial early benefits.
3. Colostrum: ‘Liquid Gold’ for Newborn Health
Colostrum—the first milk produced by a mother—contains powerful immune-boosting properties. Often called ‘liquid gold’ by midwives, colostrum is packed with:
- Good bacteria to help establish a healthy gut microbiome
- Immune-supporting antibodies to protect against infections
- Nutrients and growth factors essential for early development
Even if a mother chooses not to breastfeed, hand-expressing colostrum and giving it via syringe in the first few days can still provide lasting health benefits.
Antenatal Colostrum Harvesting
To ensure colostrum is available regardless of birth circumstances, some parents choose to collect and freeze colostrum from 36 weeks of pregnancy. This can be a useful option in case of:
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Medical complications during birth
Initial difficulties with breastfeeding - It is essential to consult a midwife before starting antenatal colostrum harvesting, especially if there is a history of preterm labour.
Empowering parents with research-based choices
Understanding research-backed newborn care practices can help parents make expert-informed decisions and advocate for their baby’s best start in life.
These three simple, natural actions—delayed cord clamping, skin-to-skin contact, and colostrum feeding—can potentially make a significant difference in your baby’s early health, setting the stage for a lifetime of wellbeing.
About Clare
Clare O’Brien
Midwife, Reproductive Health and Childbirth Research Lead, & BioGaia Ambassador
Clare O’Brien is an experienced midwife and Reproductive Health and Childbirth Research Lead, with over 11 years of NHS experience in both clinical practice and research.
A recognised expert in maternity care, Clare is a sought-after public speaker, consultant, and contributor to leading apps, brands, and publications covering pregnancy, birth, and postnatal care. She is passionate about translating research into practical guidance, helping to empower parents and improve birth outcomes.
This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional healthcare advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical concerns.
