Mom and Baby Bond through Kangaroo Care

Kangaroo care, the practice of skin-to-skin bonding between mom and baby, has been adopted worldwide because of its many advantages and health benefits for both mom and baby. In kangaroo care, the naked baby rests on the mother’s bare chest directly after birth, making the most of an important opportunity for bonding.

For premature babies, kangaroo care also refers to the practice of parents holding their baby skin-to-skin while in the neonatal intensive care unit. Premature and sick babies who “kangaroo” appear to relax and become content. Numerous studies have shown that kangaroo care has many health benefits for babies, including:

• Higher blood oxygen levels

• Improved sleep

• Improved breastfeeding

• Improved weight gain

Kangaroo care may also help babies be more alert and cry less often. These benefits can be seen even when kangaroo care is given for a few minutes each day.

Kangaroo care helps parents feel close to their baby and gives them confidence in their ability to meet their newborn’s needs. Moms who “kangaroo” also have improved breast milk production and are more successful with breastfeeding. This closeness helps mom and baby become familiar with each other and find their special breastfeeding rhythm.