A method of continuously holding a partially wrapped baby to the chest, involving skin-to-skin contact. Originally it was a method of caring for LOW-BIRTH-WEIGHT INFANT in developing countries and is now more widespread in developed nations. Aside from encouraging breast feeding, the extra sleep that the infant gets assists in regulating body temperature, helps the baby conserve energy, and redirects calorie expenditures toward growth and weight gain.

Annotation

humans only; check the tags HUMAN and INFANT or INFANT, NEWBORN

DUI

D060127 MeSH Browser

CUI

M0442325

History note

2012; use INFANT CARE 2004-2011

Public note

2012; see INFANT CARE 2004-2011