EXPLORING MOTHER’s EXPERIENCE OF KANGAROO MOTHER CARE AND ITS PERCIEVED BENEFITS FOR INFANTS DEVELOPMENT

Background: Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) is an uncomplicated, low-cost, and evidence-based procedure of caring for preterm and low birth weight infants through continuous skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding support. Even though its clinical benefits are well established, less is known about how mothers understanding KMC and how they observe its impact on their infants' development.

Objective:  This study aims to explore mothers' experiences of performing Kangaroo Mother Care and to value their perceptions of its benefits for infant development.

Methodology: A qualitative descriptive design was utilized. Mothers who had experienced KMC with their preterm or low birth weight infants in a public sector hospital were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using in-depth, semi-structured discussions until data saturation was achieved. The interviews were examined using thematic investigation to identify key themes and structure.

Results:           Two important themes emerged from the investigation: (1) Understanding and acceptance of KMC practice (2) Perceived Benefits of KMC on Infant health and well-being.

Mothers initially reported distress, anxiety, and physical discomfort while practicing KMC. However, with support from healthcare professionals, they progressively became much confident and emotionally connected with their infants. Participants observed that KMC improved their infant’s body temperature, breastfeeding, sleep, overall health, and strengthened mother–infant bonding. Even with challenges such as fatigue, lack of privacy, and limited family support, mothers considered KMC a valuable and rewarding experience.

Conclusion: Kangaroo Mother Care was perceived by mothers as a beneficial and meaningful practice that supported both infant development and maternal confidence. Continuous education, emotional support, and guidance from healthcare professionals are essential to promote successful KMC implementation and improve maternal and neonatal outcome.