Prioritizing Skin-to-Skin: Why One Mom Chose Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center

8/28/2026

New to Southeast Missouri, St. Louis native Melissa Jones had just moved to the area when she and her husband, Calen, found out they were expecting their third child. They began searching for a hospital where caregivers understand the benefits of skin-to-skin contact and know how to safely provide it. Skin-to-skin contact is the practice of placing a newborn directly on their mother’s chest immediately after birth, promoting bonding while helping regulate baby’s temperature, heart rate and breathing.

After two previous C-sections where immediate skin-to-skin contact wasn't possible, she wasn't willing to leave her third birthing experience to chance. Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center (PBRMC) stood out to her for one reason above all others: the commitment to making skin-to-skin contact a priority, even after a cesarean birth.

"New research supports the importance of early skin-to-skin contact after birth, including after cesarean delivery,” said PBRMC Women's and Children's Services Director Shannon Strenger R.N. “It can help support bonding, breastfeeding and the baby's transition to life outside the womb."

After touring hospitals during her pregnancy, Melissa said PBRMC's focus on safety, cleanliness and compassionate nursing care gave her confidence. And knowing her care team would honor her wish for skin-to-skin contact made all the difference.

"It was something I really wanted for a long time, and getting it was everything," Melissa said.

Calen described the moment as one of the most meaningful memories of their lives. He explained that with previous deliveries, Melissa felt the entire hospital was able to meet her babies before she did. “When we first heard that PBRMC was pursuing skin-to-skin contact for C-section births, Melissa started tearing up immediately…This was a moment we will cherish for the rest of our lives. And knowing that the staff went out of their way to accommodate something so special for us is something we will never forget.”

Melissa was especially grateful for the hospital's lactation consultant, whose kindness and encouragement helped make the experience even more meaningful. She also praised the seamless support her family received, from matching safety bands for mom, baby and dad to readily available lactation and postpartum resources.

"I'm so grateful for this team, and I want other moms to know it's worth speaking up for what matters to you," Melissa said.

Some experiences last only a few minutes but stay with a family forever. For Melissa and Calen, those first precious moments of skin-to-skin contact weren't just the beginning of their son's life, they were the fulfillment of a hope they'd carried through three pregnancies. Thanks to a care team that listened, their first embrace became a memory they'll treasure for a lifetime.

For more information on maternity care at PBRMC, visit pbrmc.com/maternity-care.

Back