Kangaroo care sounds like a trip to the zoo, but it is actually a life-changing practice for premature babies. This method involves holding your infant skin-to-skin, chest-to-chest, to mimic the environment of the womb.
In this article, we will cover what kangaroo care is, the science-backed benefits, and a step-by-step guide on how to do it safely.
Key Takeaways
- Kangaroo care is a method of holding a baby skin-to-skin to support development and bonding.
- Major benefits include regulated body temperature, stabilized heart rates, and improved weight gain.
- Doctors recommend practicing kangaroo care for at least one hour per session to allow the baby to settle.
- Partners and dads can also practice kangaroo care to bond with the baby and support the mother.
What Is Kangaroo Care?
Kangaroo care is a technique where a parent holds a baby skin-to-skin against their bare chest. The baby typically wears only a diaper and perhaps a hat for warmth. A blanket or the parent’s shirt covers the baby’s back to keep them cozy.
Doctors in Bogota, Colombia developed this method in the late 1970s. They lacked enough incubators for premature infants and discovered that a mother’s body heat could keep babies warm and alive. Today, it is a standard practice in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) worldwide because of its incredible health benefits.
The Benefits of Kangaroo Care
While it feels like a nice cuddle, kangaroo care is actually medical intervention. Research shows it provides the following benefits (1):
- Thermoregulation: Premature babies struggle to hold their body temperature. Your chest automatically warms up or cools down to regulate the baby’s temperature.
- Stable vitals: Skin-to-skin contact stabilizes the baby’s heart rate and breathing patterns.
- Brain development: The consistent comfort helps improve brain function and development, with benefits lasting for years.
- Deep sleep: Babies in kangaroo care sleep more deeply and wake up less often. This conserves their energy for growing.
- Faster weight gain: Because they are warmer and calmer, babies burn fewer calories and gain weight faster.
- Improved breastfeeding: Being close to the breast encourages milk production and helps the baby learn feeding cues.
- Reduced stress: The parent’s heartbeat and scent lower the baby’s cortisol (stress) levels. It makes them feel safe.
- Bonding: It releases oxytocin, the “love hormone,” helping you feel connected to your little one.
- Pain relief: It acts as a natural pain reliever for babies undergoing medical procedures like heel pricks.
- Mental health for parents: It empowers parents and helps reduce the risk of postpartum depression.
When to Start Kangaroo Care
You should ask your NICU team when you can start. For many stable preemies, you can begin immediately after birth.
If your baby is very small or medically unstable, you might need to wait until the doctor gives the green light. Once you start, consistency is key. Try to do it every day throughout your hospital stay.
Aim for a “Power Hour.” Because the transfer from the incubator to your chest can be stressful for a tiny baby, you want to keep them there for at least 60 minutes. This gives them time to recover from the move and fall into a deep sleep (2).
How to Do Kangaroo Care
Getting ready for a snuggle session requires a little preparation. Here is how to ensure a smooth experience.
1. Prepare Yourself
Go to the bathroom and grab a snack or water before you start. Since you will be sitting for at least an hour, you do not want to interrupt the session. Wear a button-down shirt or a robe that opens in the front. This allows you to expose your chest without getting fully undressed.
2. Set the Scene
Ask the nurses for a privacy screen if you are in an open bay. A comfortable reclining chair is essential. Position your chair away from drafts or high-traffic areas. If you feel exposed, a simple blanket over your shoulder can provide privacy.
3. The Transfer
If your baby is hooked up to monitors or a ventilator, a nurse must help you. They will lift the baby from the incubator and place them gently on your chest.
4. Proper Positioning
Place your baby upright on your bare chest. Their head should be turned to one side so their airway is clear. Their legs should be bent in a “frog” position. Cover the baby’s back with a blanket or wrap your shirt around them for warmth.
Safety Checks
Involving Dads and Partners
Kangaroo care is not exclusive to moms. Dads and partners play a massive role in the NICU journey.
When partners practice skin-to-skin, it gives the mother a chance to rest and recover from childbirth. It also helps the partner bond with the baby, as they often feel helpless in a hospital setting. The baby recognizes the partner’s voice from the womb, and the body heat benefits work just as well with dads.
FAQs
Can I Do Kangaroo Care With a Full-Term Baby?
Yes, absolutely. While it was invented for preemies, full-term newborns benefit from skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth. It helps with breastfeeding initiation and temperature regulation for all infants.
What If My Baby Cries During Kangaroo Care?
It is normal for a baby to fuss slightly during the transfer. Once they are settled on your chest, they usually calm down within a few minutes. If the crying continues, check their diaper or ask a nurse to help reposition them.
Can I Sleep While Doing Kangaroo Care?
No, it is not safe for the parent to fall asleep. You must remain awake to monitor your baby’s position and ensure their airway remains open. If you feel tired, place the baby back in the bassinet or hand them to an awake partner.
