In South Africa, 15% of all births, or one in SEVEN babies, are born prematurely, according to North West University (NWU).
Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) is the most cost-effective, life-saving measure that we have.
Kangaroo care is when you lay your diapered baby on your bare chest (if you’re the father) or between your bare breasts (if you’re the mother). It’s also called skin-to-skin care because your baby’s bare skin is touching your bare skin. Put a blanket on your baby’s back to help keep him warm.
“Skin-to-skin contact reduces stress, as babies can listen to their mom’s heartbeat and voice, and feel the warmth and smell of their mom’s body. Simultaneously, lactation is stimulated, which is so important for a child's nutrition while in NICU.
You can do kangaroo care with your baby even if he’s connected to NICU equipment. Ask your baby’s providers when you can start kangaroo care with your baby.
If you are a Mom of a recently prematurely born baby, reach out to the following local businesses and organizations for support.
