Kangaroo Mother Care Beyond Survival: A Systematic Review of Multidimensional Outcomes in Preterm and Low-Birth-Weight Infants

Kurniati Devi Purnamasari; Widya Maya Ningrum; Siti Fatimah; Sri Heryani; Kartikasari

doi:10.21070/midwiferia.v12i2.1884

Authors

Kurniati Devi Purnamasari Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas Galuh, Ciamis, Jawa Barat
Widya Maya Ningrum Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas Galuh, Ciamis, Jawa Barat
Siti Fatimah Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas Galuh, Ciamis, Jawa Barat
Sri Heryani Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas Galuh, Ciamis, Jawa Barat
Kartikasari Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas Galuh, Ciamis, Jawa Barat

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21070/midwiferia.v12i2.1884

Keywords:

Kangaroo Mother Care, Preterm Infants, Low Birth Weight, Neonatal Outcomes, breastfeeding

Abstract

Introduction Preterm and low-birth-weight (LBW) infants face a higher risk of neonatal illness and death. Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC), which utilises skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding support, is a fundamental care method. This review investigates neonatal outcomes related to KMC and identifies existing gaps in the evidence.

Methods A sistematic review was performed using PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. Studies focusing on preterm and/or LBW infants receiving KMC were selected through title, abstract, and full-text screening. A range of study designs and comparison methods were considered. Data concerning study characteristics, interventions, and neonatal outcomes were extracted and synthesised narratively. Ten studies were included in the final review.

Results The included studies evaluated physiological stability, milk intake, breastfeeding, growth, mortality, and neurodevelopment, with some also assessing maternal knowledge and satisfaction. Findings differed depending on the intervention, study design, and outcome measures used. Because hospital length of stay was reported inconsistently, it was difficult to draw definitive conclusions regarding its association with KMC.

Discussion and Conclusion The reviewed studies suggest that Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) may be linked to improved neonatal outcomes in preterm and low-birth-weight infants. However, variations in study designs and outcome measures limit the strength and generalisability of these findings.

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