Kangaroo Mother Care: Method of Kangaroo Mother Care and Its Advantages

Kangaroo mother care is a method of holding your infant close to your chest. Your baby merely wears a diaper, possibly with a hat and socks for warmth. They are positioned such that your bare chest is in contact with them. This kind of touch is a unique sensation that can strengthen your relationship with your infant. Additionally, it has health advantages, especially for premature or low birthweight infants.

In addition to providing kangaroo care at home, hospitals also offer this service in the NICU (neonatal intensive care unit).

Depending on your circumstances and your baby's medical requirements, you decide how long to hold your child throughout each session. The care team for your infant can provide detailed instructions on when to start kangaroo care after birth and how long each session should last. They will also determine whether providing kangaroo care for infants who are attached to IVs or other medical devices is safe and feasible, and they will let you know if it isn't.

Another term for kangaroo care is "kangaroo mother care." The majority of research emphasizes the advantages of having a mother or other birthing parent provide such care. However, other carers may also engage in kangaroo care. These include fathers, other family members, and qualified volunteers.

How To Provide Kangaroo Mother Care

In the hospital, you can begin providing kangaroo care with the assistance of your nurse. While the time of each session is flexible, most studies recommend longer sessions for greater results. According to one study, for instance, when practiced for at least seven days in a row, a two-hour session is more advantageous than a one-hour session. What's best for your infant can be learned from your care team.

You should follow the below-mentioned points while providing Kangaroo Mother care:

• Wear relaxed clothing. What to dress is not subject to any stringent rules. However, since your baby will lie against your naked chest, you should wear something that you can quickly open in the front. If you wear a bra, you must take it off as well.
• If you'd prefer, you can wear a hospital gown that opens in front.
• Place the infant on your chest. Your infant's head should be lying against your chest with its body erect and to one side. Typically, your infant will simply wear a diaper, a hat, and socks. Your infant will stay warmer wearing the hat and socks.
• Cover the infant. Once you are skin-to-skin, cover your infant's back with a blanket. Ensure your infant's warmth and comfort as they rest against your chest. Your carer could advise using a wrap to hold your infant close to your chest.
• Together, relax. Try relaxing as you hold your child during your session. Keep in mind to breathe normally. This is a perfect opportunity for your infant to unwind and take a nap. Let your infant snooze by cuddling up to you. Try not to entertain your infant or draw their attention.
• Be prepared for numerous sessions. The best schedule for you and your infant will be provided by your care team. Inquire if anything is unclear, or if you have any more queries or worries.

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Advantages Of Kangaroo mother care

For babies who were born prematurely or with low birth weight, kangaroo care has many advantages. Kangaroo maintenance has been shown to:

• Your baby's heart rate must be maintained.
• The respiratory rhythm of your baby should be improved, and breathing should become more regular.
• Support sounder, longer cycles of sleep that are also healthy.
• Aid in the development of your infant.
• minimize any discomfort your baby may experience during certain procedures, such as a heel-prick test.
• Reduce the likelihood that your child may die from hypothermia, life-threatening illnesses, or other consequences (these effects are specific to children born in countries with poor resources).

You benefit from kangaroo care in the following ways:

• Connect with your infant.
• Increase your milk production and start breastfeeding.
• Have faith in your capacity to provide for and attend to the requirements of your infant.

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What Precautions Should Be Taken During Kangaroo Mother Care?

For your baby's safety and comfort, while receiving kangaroo care, you should:

• Put away your phones and other electronics. These may divert your attention from your infant. In order to bond with your kid and keep them safe as you hold them, it's crucial to pay attention to them.
• Maintain Good Hygiene and Healthy Skin Condition.  If you have a rash, open wounds, or cold sores, you shouldn't perform kangaroo care. Applying lotions or scents after cleaning your skin is not recommended.
• Prevent smoking. Avoid smoking during kangaroo care. Your baby's health is greatly impacted by secondhand smoke.
• If you are feeling unwell, avoid providing kangaroo care. Only two to three months after birth does your baby's immune system reach complete maturity. So it's important to restrict your baby's contact with pathogens during these early weeks. Ask if someone else can provide care while you are ill so that you can recover. Alternatively, inquire with your doctor about whether wearing a facemask while performing kangaroo care is safe.

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