Introduction: Intact cord resuscitation promotes zero separation and facilitates skin-to-skin contact, regardless of delivery mode. Therefore, this study aims to illuminate parents’ experiences of intact cord resuscitation in the mother’s bed.

Method: Interviews with seven mothers, one father and seven couples were analysed using Lindseth and Norberg’s phenomenological hermeneutics.

Results: The analysis revealed one overarching theme, Guardians of the neonate when the unexpected happens: Parents navigating between involvement and anxiety. Two themes emerged: The emotional impact and The necessity of ongoing communication and information.

Conclusion: Parents in critical situations during intact cord resuscitation experienced positive outcomes by means of being able to be close to their neonate and witness the critical situation. When parents receive information in a clear and reassuring manner, it can help reduce their anxiety and increase their sense of control during a challenging period.