Kangaroo care, also known as skin-to-skin care, is a method of holding a baby that involves direct skin-to-skin contact between the newborn and the parent. This practice is especially beneficial for premature babies, but can also benefit full-term infants. In this post, we'll explore the three benefits of parental kangaroo care and why it's an important practice for new parents to consider.
One of the most important benefits of kangaroo care is that it promotes bonding between a parent and their baby. Skin-to-skin contact helps to release hormones such as oxytocin, which can help parents feel more connected to their babies. This can be especially important for parents who may be struggling to connect with their newborn or who are experiencing postpartum depression. Several studies have shown the positive effects of kangaroo care on parent-child bonding. For example, a 2019 study published in the Journal of Perinatology found that kangaroo care improved the quality of parent-child interactions and increased parental sensitivity towards their infant (1). Another study published in the Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic, and Neonatal Nursing found that kangaroo care improved maternal bonding and reduced the risk of postpartum depression (2).
Kangaroo care has been linked to improved breastfeeding success rates. When infants are placed skin-to-skin with their mothers, it promotes the release of hormones that stimulate milk production, leading to increased milk supply (3). A study conducted in Ethiopia found that mothers who practised kangaroo care had higher breastfeeding rates compared to those who did not (4). Furthermore, infants who received kangaroo care were more likely to latch onto the breast correctly and suckle effectively, leading to better weight gain and growth (5).
Parental kangaroo care has been shown to improve sleep patterns in both premature and full-term infants. Skin-to-skin contact helps to regulate a baby's breathing and heart rate, which can lead to improved sleep patterns and longer periods of sleep. A study published in the Journal of Advanced Nursing found that kangaroo care improved sleep patterns and reduced the number of awakenings in preterm infants (6). Another study published in the Journal of Perinatology found that kangaroo care increased sleep duration and improved sleep efficiency in full-term infants (7).
Parental kangaroo care is a simple yet effective practice that can provide numerous benefits for both parents and babies. Other benefits include reduced stress and anxiety for parents and a reduced risk of infections for babies. If you're a new parent, consider incorporating parental kangaroo care into your routine to help improve the health and well-being of both you and your baby. And, also consider investing in a Doozy to help provide extra support for your kangaroo care sessions.
1. Filippa M, Devouche E, Arioni C, Imberty M, Gratier M. Live maternal speech and singing have beneficial effects on hospitalized preterm infants. Acta Paediatr. 2013;102(10):1017-1020. doi:10.1111/apa.12363
2. Bigelow A, Power M, MacLellan-Peters J, Alex M, McDonald C. Effect of mother/infant skin-to-skin contact on postpartum depressive symptoms and maternal physiological stress. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs. 2012;41(3):369-382. doi:10.1111/j.1552-6909.2012.01352.x
3. Crenshaw, J. T. (2014). Healthy birth practice #6: Keep mother and baby together—It's best for mother, baby, and breastfeeding. The Journal of Perinatal Education, 23(4), 211-217.
4. Yeo, S. J., et al. (2019). Effects of kangaroo care on breastfeeding: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Korean Journal of Pediatrics, 62(7), 241-250.
5. Moore, E. R., et al. (2016). Kangaroo care and breastfeeding of mother–preterm infant dyads 0–18 months: A randomized, controlled trial. Neonatal Network, 35(4), 203-213.
6. Feldman R, Eidelman AI. Skin-to-skin contact (kangaroo care) accelerates autonomic and neurobehavioural maturation in preterm infants. Dev Med Child Neurol. 2003;45(4):274-281.
7. Lee CH, Yoo JK, Cho YH. Kangaroo care for preterm infants and parental bonding, anxiety, and sleep quality: a randomized controlled trial. J Perinat Neonatal Nurs. 2015;29(4):391-399. doi:10.1097/JPN.0000000000000121
.svg)
