What are the reasons why newborns enjoy physical touch?

Under normal circumstances, a newborn's preference for physical contact may be due to seeking security, meeting tactile developmental needs, dry and itchy skin, gastroesophageal reflux, or colic. If accompanied by abnormal symptoms, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Seeking Security

After birth, newborns face an unfamiliar environment outside the womb, and physical contact can simulate the intrauterine environment, helping to ease anxiety. Increase skin-to-skin contact—such as holding the baby against the chest—and maintain gentle movements to create a stable, comforting environment.

2. Meeting Tactile Developmental Needs

Newborns have highly sensitive touch receptors. Physical contact stimulates the development of tactile nerves and enhances sensory perception. Gentle stroking, hugging, and wrapping with soft clothing can enrich the baby’s tactile experiences.

3. Dry and Itchy Skin

Dry environments or improper skincare can lead to dehydrated, itchy skin, causing newborns to seek relief through body contact. Maintain indoor humidity between 50%–60%, apply baby-specific moisturizing lotions, and dress the infant in breathable cotton clothing.

4. Gastroesophageal Reflux

The lower esophageal sphincter in newborns is not fully developed, leading to stomach contents flowing back and causing discomfort. Physical contact may help alleviate symptoms. After feeding, hold the baby upright and burp them; avoid laying them flat immediately. Medications such as simethicone emulsion, domperidone suspension, or hydrotalcite suspension may be used under medical guidance.

5. Infantile Colic

Abdominal pain caused by abnormal intestinal motility may prompt newborns to seek comfort through physical contact. Gently massage the abdomen in a clockwise direction, avoid vigorous shaking after feeding, and consider using medications like Bifidobacterium triple viable powder, Bacillus subtilis dual viable granules, or simethicone emulsion under medical supervision. Seek medical evaluation if symptoms are severe.

In daily care, provide gentle physical contact regularly; maintain appropriate indoor temperature and humidity; perform proper skin care; practice scientific feeding with correct breastfeeding positions and burping techniques; closely monitor the newborn’s condition, and seek medical attention promptly if any abnormalities occur.