Kangaroo Care

Kangaroo care, also known as skin-to-skin contact, is a vital practice for preterm infants, offering numerous health benefits that support their development and well-being.

Key Benefits of Kangaroo Care for Preterm Infants

1. Physiological Stability

Skin-to-skin contact helps regulate a preterm infant's body temperature, heart rate, and breathing patterns. This stability is crucial for conserving energy, promoting weight gain, and supporting brain development.

2. Enhanced Neurodevelopment

Studies indicate that preterm infants who receive regular kangaroo care exhibit improved neurodevelopmental outcomes, including better attention, reflexes, and movement quality. These benefits can persist into early childhood. 

3. Improved Sleep and Growth

Kangaroo care promotes longer, more restful sleep, which is essential for growth and brain development. It also facilitates faster weight gain and can lead to earlier hospital discharge. 

4. Reduced Risk of Infections and Mortality

In resource-limited settings, kangaroo care has been associated with lower rates of infections and reduced mortality among low-birthweight infants. 

5. Enhanced Bonding and Parental Confidence

The close contact fosters a strong emotional bond between the infant and parent, boosting parental confidence and reducing stress. It also supports increased breast milk production and successful breastfeeding.