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These Captivating Photos Showcase Essential Cuddle Moments for NICU Moms
by Emma Hartfield
May 14, 2017
Images via March of Dimes/Schaumburg Photography
These poignant photos highlight the significance of skin-to-skin contact for mothers and their babies in the NICU. For many mothers, the most cherished moment during childbirth is when they first hold their newborn. However, for moms with premature or critically ill infants, those treasured moments can be all too brief.
Kangaroo care, or skin-to-skin contact, has been proven to offer numerous benefits, such as alleviating stress, lowering the risk of infections, enhancing brain development in infants, and fostering a vital bond between mother and child. This practice is advocated by the March of Dimes and health professionals across the globe.
Image via March of Dimes
In the NICU, where fragile babies receive constant medical attention, carving out time for meaningful interaction can be challenging. To honor Mother’s Day this week, the March of Dimes collaborated with Saint Luke’s Hospital to create memorable experiences for NICU moms, offering support and photography sessions to document their intimate bonding moments.
Image via March of Dimes
The March of Dimes NICU Family Support Program at Saint Luke’s Hospital provides assistance to mothers on bed rest or those spending time with their critically ill or premature babies. Premature infants, born before 37 weeks, face serious health complications and are at risk for lifelong disabilities, including respiratory issues, visual impairments, cerebral palsy, and developmental delays. In the U.S. alone, approximately 380,000 babies are born prematurely each year, equating to one in ten births. Alarmingly, the premature birth rate in the U.S. surpasses that of many other developed countries.
Image via March of Dimes
The March of Dimes is at the forefront of groundbreaking research through a nationwide network of five Prematurity Research Centers, where experts are collaborating to push the boundaries of knowledge surrounding premature birth.
To capture these heartfelt moments, the March of Dimes and Saint Luke’s enlisted photographers, some of whom had experienced the NICU journey themselves. The resulting images beautifully convey the profound connection between mothers and their babies.
Image via March of Dimes
“Mother’s Day can be a difficult time for families with babies in the NICU, particularly for first-time moms,” noted March of Dimes president, Lila Johnson, in a press release. “Our NICU Family Support Program partners with Saint Luke’s Hospital and over 100 hospitals nationwide to provide families with the resources they need for a positive experience during their time in the NICU.”
Image via March of Dimes
The emotions captured in these photos reflect the importance of these special moments for new mothers. Congratulations and Happy Mother’s Day to all the NICU moms!
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In summary, the powerful imagery surrounding NICU mothers and their infants underscores the essential role of skin-to-skin contact, especially during moments that are often fraught with emotional challenges. The collaboration between the March of Dimes and Saint Luke’s Hospital provides invaluable support and captures memories that these families will cherish forever.
Keyphrase: NICU moms bonding
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