[Effects of Kangaroo mother care on duration of exclusive breastfeeding and feeding pattern in neonates of mothers who delivered by cesarean section]

ABSTRACT

Early separation of mother and newborn has adverse effects on various aspect of infants growth, development and breastfeeding. Regarding the long- term separation of mothers from infants in cesarean section [C/S], some strategies, such as Kangaroo mother care [KMC] is very important. So, this study was conducted to determine the effects of KMC on infant feeding pattern in hospital and exclusive breastfeeding up to six- month. In a randomized controlled trial, 160 mother-infant dyads were recruited in KMC and routine care [RC] [80 mother-infant dyads in each group]. In KMC group, 2 hours after C/S, skin to skin contact was provided with special cover. KMC was done three 60 min/day for 2 consecutive days. With taking of special cover to the KMC group and continuing this care at home, exclusive breastfeeding up to 6- month was compared between two groups. Both groups were similar regarding all background and demographic variables. In KMC group, number of feeding in hospital [p<0.05] and exclusive breastfeeding up to 6- month [p<0.05] were greater than RC, but there was no statistically difference in the time between birth and the first feeding between two groups. In KMC group, number of severe crying in hospital was lower than RC group [5.6 vs. 12.3, p<0.001]. Regarding the positive effects of KMC on breastfeeding, especially on exclusive breastfeeding up to 6- month, skin to skin contact and KMC are recommended in delivery and C/S units, and then it's continuing at home