The moment of birth is often a cherished memory for mothers, marked by the first embrace of their newborns. However, for mothers of preterm or critically ill infants, these intimate moments can be severely limited. The practice of kangaroo care, also known as skin-to-skin contact, has been shown to enhance maternal-infant bonding, alleviate stress, lower infection risks, and promote healthy brain development in newborns. Health experts and organizations like the March of Dimes advocate for this approach as beneficial for both mothers and their infants.
In the challenging environment of a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), where fragile babies receive constant medical attention, carving out time for meaningful interactions can be difficult. To honor Mother’s Day, the March of Dimes collaborated with local hospitals, including Saint Luke’s Hospital, to provide NICU mothers with support and photography sessions that encapsulated these precious moments of connection.
The NICU Family Support Program, part of the March of Dimes initiative, assists mothers who are either on bed rest or actively present with their newborns in the NICU. Infants born prematurely, defined as those delivered before 37 weeks of gestation, often face an array of health challenges that can lead to long-term disabilities, such as respiratory issues, visual impairments, and developmental delays. In the U.S., approximately 380,000 babies are born prematurely each year—equating to one in ten births—making the premature birth rate higher than in many other developed nations.
To combat the challenges of prematurity, the March of Dimes is investing in groundbreaking research through a network of five Prematurity Research Centers, where scientists collaborate on pioneering advancements to improve outcomes for preterm infants. This initiative is vital, as maternal support in the NICU setting is crucial for fostering healthy emotional and physical connections between mother and child.
Photographers who have personal experiences with NICU journeys were enlisted to document these bonding sessions. The captured images convey the profound impact of skin-to-skin contact, illustrating the deep emotional significance these interactions hold for mothers. “Mother’s Day can be particularly challenging for families with infants in the NICU,” expressed Laura Bennett, president of March of Dimes, in a recent statement. “Our NICU Family Support program, in partnership with Saint Luke’s Hospital and over 100 other hospitals nationwide, strives to provide families with the necessary resources to navigate this difficult time.”
The resonance of these moments is evident in the photographs, highlighting the invaluable bond between mothers and their newborns. Congratulations to all NICU mothers, and a heartfelt Happy Mother’s Day to them!
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Summary
Skin-to-skin contact or kangaroo care is crucial for maternal-infant bonding, especially in the NICU where preterm infants receive care. The March of Dimes, in collaboration with hospitals, offers support programs and documentation of these bonding moments, emphasizing their importance for both mothers and their infants during challenging times.
Keyphrase: skin-to-skin contact in NICU
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