Skin to skin care can start before small and preterm babies are clinically stable, WHO says

Skin to skin contact with a care giver, known as kangaroo mother care, should start immediately after birth, without any initial period in an incubator, the World Health Organization has recommended.1The preterm and low birthweight infant guidelines advise that skin to skin contact can be initiated before the infant is clinically stable, unless the infant is unable to breathe spontaneously after resuscitation, is in shock, or needs mechanical ventilation.The infant’s clinical condition, including heart rate, breathing, colour, temperature, and oxygen saturation, should be monitored, the guidance has said.WHO’s medical officer for newborn health Karen Edmond said, “The first embrace with a parent is not only emotionally important, but also absolutely critical for improving chances of survival and health outcomes for small and premature babies. Through covid-19 times, we know that many women were unnecessarily separated from their babies, which could be catastrophic for the health of babies born early or…
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