Kangaroo care saves premature newborns' lives and boosts their brain health

In the United States, Abigaile Cardona gave birth to premature triplets at Stanford Medicine Children's Health around 10 months ago. The unexpected delivery occurred after she experienced contractions during a routine checkup for her pregnancy's complications. She underwent an emergency C-section and welcomed her three babies earlier than planned, each weighing significantly less than average. After giving birth, Cardona and her husband faced the challenges of caring for their newborns, who were in the NICU for several weeks. They learned about 'Kangaroo Care' — a method involving skin-to-skin contact that helps stabilize heart rates and improve cognitive development in premature infants. A recent study from Stanford Medicine highlighted how only 20 minutes of skin-to-skin contact per day can lead to notable cognitive benefits, comparable to a 10-point increase in IQ by the age of one. The research emphasized that engaging in this care promotes not just physical health but also emotional bonding between parents and their babies. Dr. Melissa Scala, a neonatologist at Stanford Children's Health, pointed out the significant impact this method can have on long-term development, affecting aspects like breathing and sleep cycles. Following this guidance, Cardona actively implemented the Kangaroo Care practice with her triplets both in the hospital and at home. Throughout the weeks in the NICU, Abigaile described the emotional journey of finally holding her newborns in her arms, reinforcing her connection to them as their mother. She expressed deep pride in her triplets, acknowledging their early struggles and victories since birth. The experience not only strengthened her bond with her children but also underscored the critical role parents play in their premature infants' health and development. Their ongoing commitment to Kangaroo Care reflects an understanding of how small, consistent actions can significantly affect a child's growth and well-being, further encouraging other parents in similar situations to consider this approach. The Cardona family's story serves as a reminder of the trials faced by families of premature infants and the importance of support systems and medical advancements available today. As they navigate the challenges of parenthood, the family promotes awareness about Kangaroo Care, advocating for its adoption to improve outcomes for newborns worldwide.