Role of kangaroo mother care in modulating microbiome and enhancing neonatal outcomes: A comprehensive review

Introduction: Kangaroo mother care (KMC) involves skin-to-skin contact (SSC) between the mother and infant, exclusive breastfeeding, and early discharge from the hospital with close follow-up, and it is an extensively adopted practice for improving the outcomes of preterm and low birthweight (LBW) neonates. The physiological, clinical, and psychological advantages of KMC are well documented; emerging evidence suggests that it may positively affect the neonatal microbiome, which is an essential factor for developing a healthy immune system and long-term outcomes. KMC improves maternal–neonatal microbial transfer through direct skin-to-skin contact and by improving breastfeeding. These support gut microbiota development by providing essential nutrients and prebiotics. The transfer of maternal microbiota during KMC is associated with improved infection rates, immune function, and enhanced gut health in neonates. This review assesses the impact of KMC on developing a healthy microbiome in preterm infants and explores its physiological benefits, clinical implications, and the role of nurses in its success. Conclusion: Kangaroo care is a cost-effective method offering numerous physiological, clinical, and psychological advantages for neonates and their mothers, and the role of nurses is highly important. Besides enhancing immediate neonatal outcomes, KMC may significantly influence the neonatal microbiome, potentially leading to long-term health benefits by decreasing disease susceptibility in LBW and preterm infants.