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Kangaroo Care

Skin-to-skin contact between mother and baby improves many parameters in premature infants.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Kangaroo Care?

Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC), developed in Colombia in the 1970s, involves carrying premature babies upright in skin-to-skin contact on the parent's bare chest. WHO recommends it as the primary care strategy for premature babies in low-income countries.

It has three core components: 1) Skin-to-skin contact, 2) Exclusive breastfeeding, 3) Early discharge with follow-up. The infant's temperature regulation, heart rate, breathing and oxygen saturation improve.

It substantially reduces neonatal mortality and improves breastfeeding success and mother-infant bonding. It can be started early in all stable premature infants and should continue for at least 1 hour per day.

Symptoms

Premature infant (all stable cases)
Birth weight <2500 g
Newborn at risk of hypothermia
Infant requiring breastfeeding initiation
Mother-infant bonding need
Stabilized premature infant

Risk Factors

Hemodynamic instability (relative contraindication)
Severe illness (resuscitation, ventilator)
Maternal illness (relative)
Invasive catheter and intubation (with caution)
Extreme prematurity <28 weeks (initially wait)
Maternal psychiatric condition

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • KMC initiation plan at premature delivery
  • After stabilization in NICU
  • For maternal chest pain or discomfort
  • For neonatal hemodynamic changes
  • For pre-discharge education

Treatment Methods

01
Start as early as possible after stabilization
02
Upright skin-to-skin contact position (45-90°)
03
At least 1 hour per day, continuous if possible
04
Breast milk feeding and breastfeeding
05
Thermoregulation and oximetry monitoring
06
Education: family, paternal and nursing support

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.