Most new parents get to bond with their babies immediately after birth, but a small percentage of all babies are born premature, and those parents may have to wait weeks or months before ever holding their baby. Thanks to a technique called “Kangaroo Care,” however, parents of premature babies are getting to hold their newborns much sooner and help their little ones at the same time. Touch has a powerful effect on both baby and parents as it helps establish a sense of attachment.

Kangaroo Care can help reduce some of the stress of the NICU for both parents and babies, as well as the fear and nervousness parents may feel about handling their baby. Kangaroo Care allows mums and dads to hold their babies, wearing only diapers, on their bare chest up to several times a day. This skin-to-skin contact has numerous benefits, both emotional and physical, for both the baby and parents.

In a typical Kangaroo Care session, the mother or father relaxes in a chair while the nurses slowly transfer the baby, still attached to any tubes or cords, from the bed onto the parent’s bare chest. Screens are usually provided for privacy if you wish. Once the baby is settled, the nurse will either place a blanket over the baby’s back or help the parent button their shirt around the baby. The rise and fall of the mother’s chest as she breathes and the sound of her heartbeat provide a soothing rhythm for the baby. The mother’s body warmth keeps baby comfortable and feeling safe. To soothe your baby use slow firm strokes, with the pads of your fingers. If you make quick finger strokes your baby might become irritated because this type of touching is too stimulating.

You may find that you are able to kangaroo your baby one day but the next day you cannot. It will depend on how your baby has been stability wise and whether there is someone available to help you get set up as this is something you cannot do alone. It is hard not to be disappointed or upset when you cannot hold your baby close but there is always tomorrow and enjoy the kangaroo cuddles when you do have that special time.

If you are still expressing, this kind of skin to skin contact may help to boost your milk supply.

The subject matter provided in these articles is strictly for informational purposes alone and should never be used in the place of a doctor’s advice. Please ALWAYS contact your doctor if you ever have questions or need advice in any area where medical advice is needed or medication is suggested.