Because preterm babies lack body fat, many have problems regulating their own temperature when they are born, and they often require medical assistance with breathing.
For these babies, previous recommendations were for an initial period of separation from their primary caregiver, with the baby first stabilized in an incubator or warmer.
However, research has now shown that starting kangaroo mother care immediately after birthsaves many more lives , reduces infections and hypothermia, and improves feeding.
“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,” said Dr Karen Edmond, Medical Officer for Newborn Health at WHO .
“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 small.
These new guidelines stress the need to provide care for families and preterm babies together as a unit, and ensure parents get the best possible support through what is often a uniquely stressful and anxious time.”
While these new recommendations have particular pertinence in poorer settings that may not have access to high-tech equipment, or even reliable electricity supply, they are also relevant for high-income contexts.
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新指南指出，这需要重新考虑如何提供新生儿重症监护，以确保父母和新生儿能始终在一起。
This calls for a rethink of how neonatal intensive care is provided, the guidelines state, to ensure parents and newborns can be together at all times.
Throughout the guidelines, breastfeeding is strongly recommended to improve health outcomes for preterm and low birthweight babies, with evidence showing it reduces infection risks compared to infant formula.