Kangaroo Care

Kangaroo Care is a special way to hold your baby for skin-to-skin contact. Your baby is placed on your bare chest wearing only a diaper and hat and will be covered with a warm blanket. The baby snuggles on your chest covered with a blanket, just like a kangaroo’s pouch. That’s why it’s called Kangaroo Care or KC. Doctors say that holding a baby skin-to-skin is the “best care” for your baby.

Why is Kangaroo Care the “best care” for Mom and Baby?

• Helps your baby move to the outside world easier because he can hear your heartbeat and feel your warmth.
• Helps to keep your baby warm.
• Helps baby maintain a good heart rate and breathing rate.
• Your baby will cry less and sleep more.
• Your baby can be held skin-to-skin during procedures.
• Your baby will have better brain development.
• Your baby may take the first feeding at your breast, which is the best care you can provide for your baby.
• You will have more milk and more success with breastfeeding.
• You will have better bonding and feelings of closeness.
• You will feel more confident caring for your baby.

How do I do Kangaroo Care at birth?

• Immediately after birth, your baby will be dried off and placed on your chest, if you choose.
• Both you and the baby will be covered with warm blankets.
• Your baby may take the first feeding at the breast.
• You and your baby may remain skin-to-skin for up to 2 hours.
• Do not hand the baby to family members or friends during this time as your baby will get cold.