What to Know about Skin to Skin Contact?

As a former parent of a NICU GRAD, I know firsthand of the benefits of kangaroo care and the special bond it holds. Let's look at the special connections it promotes for mommy and baby.

Skin-to-skin contact, also known as kangaroo care, provides several benefits for both premature and full-term babies in the NICU. Some of the key benefits include:

1. Improved Bonding

  • Skin-to-skin contact promotes a strong emotional bond between the baby and the parents. This closeness helps the baby feel safe and secure, which is especially important for premature infants who may have had limited physical contact with their parents before.

2. Regulated Body Temperature

  • Holding a baby skin-to-skin helps regulate their body temperature. The parent's body warmth provides a natural way to keep the baby warm, which is particularly crucial for premature babies who may not yet have the ability to regulate their body temperature.

3. Better Heart Rate and Breathing

  • Studies show that skin-to-skin contact can help stabilize the baby's heart rate and breathing. The close contact and soothing environment can promote more consistent and stronger heart rhythms, which is important for preemies whose systems are still developing.

4. Enhanced Breastfeeding

  • Skin-to-skin contact can encourage breastfeeding, making it easier for babies to latch on and nurse. It also stimulates the mother's milk production and can help improve the baby’s suckling reflex, which can be a challenge for preemies.

5. Improved Sleep Patterns

  • Babies in the NICU who experience skin-to-skin contact often experience deeper, more restful sleep. This can be beneficial for their growth and development, allowing their bodies to rest and repair.

6. Reduced Stress and Pain

  • Skin-to-skin care has been shown to lower the levels of stress hormones in both the baby and the parent. It also has pain-relieving effects, helping babies cope better with medical procedures or discomfort in the NICU.

7. Strengthened Immune System

  • The close contact with the parent's skin can help boost the baby’s immune system. The exposure to the parent's natural microbiome can assist in the development of the baby’s own immune system, helping them fight off infections.

8. Faster Growth and Development

  • Preemies who receive more skin-to-skin contact tend to show improved weight gain and faster overall development. This is due to the comfort, warmth, and stimulation that help their bodies grow more efficiently.

9. Reduced Risk of Infection

  • Skin-to-skin contact can reduce the need for supplemental heat sources, which can sometimes lead to infections. Additionally, the bonding process may reduce the stress levels in the baby, helping their immune system function better.

 

 

Disclaimer: I am not a physician or nurse. All suggestions and information shared are based on personal experiences and statistics studies. Please consult a healthcare professional for medical advice.