[Kangaroo method in delivery room for full-term babies]

Area of Science:

• Neonatal care
• Maternal-infant bonding
• Pediatrics

Context:

• Kangaroo care, or skin-to-skin contact, is an increasingly recognized method for newborn care.
• Its implementation in the immediate postnatal period, specifically the delivery room, requires evaluation for tolerance and efficacy.
• This study investigates the feasibility and benefits of initiating kangaroo care immediately after birth.

Purpose:

• To assess the tolerance of kangaroo care in the delivery room for both mothers and healthy, full-term newborns.
• To evaluate the impact of kangaroo care duration on infant temperature and breastfeeding initiation.
• To determine the relationship between kangaroo care and maternal-infant well-being.

Summary:

• 651 healthy newborns were studied, with 82% receiving immediate skin-to-skin (kangaroo) care. Average care duration was 49 minutes.
• Infant temperature remained above 36°C in 96% of newborns post-care, correlating with duration. Mothers reported positive experiences, though 21% felt tired.
• Newborns engaging in spontaneous breastfeeding during kangaroo care stayed in contact longer and had a significantly higher probability of successful breastfeeding initiation (OR=7.73) if care exceeded 50 minutes.

Impact:

• Kangaroo care in the delivery room is a safe and well-tolerated practice that enhances maternal and infant well-being.
• Promoting extended kangaroo care (over 50 minutes) can improve breastfeeding rates and neonatal temperature stability.
• This practice supports early mother-infant bonding and contributes to positive neonatal outcomes.