‘Kangaroo’ care has been found to be so powerful that doing it can help survival rates and brain development in premature babies.
It is described as intensive skin-to-skin contact with your baby after birth that both mum and dad can try. It involves you holding your baby on your bare chest with a blanket draped over your baby's back.
Researchers in Colombia found that this kangaroo mother care has significant, long-lasting social and behavioural protective effects even 20 years on.
Dr Charpak, the head of the study explained: “We firmly believe that this is a powerful, efficient, scientifically based healthcare intervention that can be used in all settings, from those with very restricted to unrestricted access to healthcare.”
Some of the benefits include:
Maintaining the baby's warmth
Regulating their heart rates
Helping them to gain weight
Helping them spend more time in deep sleep
There are also emotional benefits for parents - it builds confidence and reduces your stress as you successfully give that intimate care that your baby needs.
By holding your baby directly against your skin, you'll feel the experience of new parenthood and closeness to your baby.
Kangaroo care can help calm your baby, sooth them in stressful times and provide that comfort that helps your baby to thrive. Proof that the power of touch is simply unlimited.
