For research purposes (interventions with premies, for example), Skin-to-skin is often defined as a parent holding the infant, naked except for a diaper, against their bare chest in a calm, dimly lit environment for a minimum of at least thirty minutes on a regular basis.
Parent and infant are covered, as necessary for warmth.
from a research proposal --
Quote:
| The benefits of Kangaroo Care (skin-to-skin) to preterm and full-term infants include faster weight gain, improved thermal, respiratory, and cardiovascular regulation, enhanced neurological development (Tessier et al., 2003; Ferber & Makhoul, 2004), and reduced frequency of infection and illness (Aucott et al., 2002). Benefits to the mother include oxytocin release (Ferber & Markhoul, 2004), improved mother-infant attachment, and reduced postpartum depression symptoms (Anderson et al., 2003), among others. |
Is baby completely naked and mom's chest and belly completely exposed?
Baby either completely naked or wearing a diaper, perhaps a hat. Any area of mom that infant touches is exposed; a shirt or blanket may be draped over the couple. With premies, think of putting the infant down your shirt, or inside your bra (if infant is very tiny).
Is the baby bundled, as I so often see them, and held at the bare breast?
Not likely, as that would not be true skin-to-skin.
