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.
Semantic type(s): Daily or Recreational Activity; Therapeutic or Preventive Procedure
MeSH record created: 24/06/2011
MeSH record revised: 24/06/2011