The effect of kangaroo mother care applied to the healthy newborns in the early postpartum period on breastfeeding: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Objectives: To determine the effect of kangaroo mother care applied to the healthy newborns in the early postpartum period on breastfeeding.

Methods: The randomised controlled experimental study was conducted from June 1 to August 25, 2016, at a training and research hospital in Istanbul, Turkey, and comprised healthy newborns and their mothers equally divided into study group A and control group B. The newborns in group A were administered kangaroo mother care for 3 hours after birth, while group B newborns were cared for using the unit's standard postpartum procedure. The time the newborns in both the groups first started to breastfeed, the frequency of breastfeeding within the first 24 hours, the duration of their breastfeeding and suckling skills were evaluated. Data was analysed using the Number Cruncher Statistical System 2007.

Results: There were 112 sets of newborns and their mothers; 56(50%) in each of the two groups. Group A newborns started suckling at the breast sooner, for longer duration, and more frequently compared to the newborns in group B (p<0.05). There was no difference between the groups in terms of initial suckling skills (p= 0.862), but those in group A were better at suckling 24 hours later (p=0.001).

Conclusions: Kangaroo mother care administered to healthy newborns immediately after birth encouraged the newborns to take to the breast sooner, more frequently, and for longer periods. It also increased their suckling skills.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04619459.

Keywords: Kangaroo mother care, Breastfeeding, Postpartum period, Term newborn..