Extended Stay in Kangaroo Mother Care Ward After NICU to Reduce Postpartum Depression and Improve Infant Outcomes in Low-Resource Settings

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating whether longer admission to the Kangaroo Mother Care KMC ward after discharge from the neonatal intensive care unit NICU reduces postpartum depression in mothers of low birthweight preterm infants in low-resource settings. This randomized controlled trial compares extended KMC admission of more than 2 days to standard care of less than 2 days. The study also explores the impact on infant neurodevelopment, paternal depression, barriers to KMC practice, and cost effectiveness. Participants in the trial are randomly assigned to either stay on the KMC ward for more than 2 days or less than 2 days following NICU discharge. Mothers and infants practice kangaroo care, breastfeeding, and infant care during their stay. The study involves follow-up visits at 2 weeks, 6-8 weeks, and at 6, 12, and 18 months, to assess maternal depression, paternal depression, infant development, and barriers to KMC both in the hospital and after discharge. Mothers and fathers will be screened for depression at multiple time points while infants undergo neurodevelopmental assessments up to 18 months of age. Researchers will track hours spent practicing KMC, breastfeeding duration, infant growth measurements, morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Data collection includes questionnaires on social support and interviews to identify KMC barriers. The study aims to provide a comprehensive view of maternal, paternal, and infant outcomes related to KMC duration in a low-resource setting.

Admission to Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) Ward and Maternal Postpartum Depression