Introduction: India is one of the countries which register a largest number of neonatal deaths, 35 percent of which are
attributed to preterm birth and low birth weight. Among many strategies available, Kangaroo mother care (KMC) is easiest,
cheapest and beneficial technique in reducing neonatal mortality. So, it is the need of the hour to increase knowledge and
awareness regarding KMC. The present study aims to assess the knowledge and practice regarding kangaroo mother care
among postnatal mothers of preterm babies.
Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted for two months among 60 postnatal mothers of preterm babies in the
postnatal ward Institute of obstetrics and gynaecology, Chennai .Consecutive sampling method was used and a one to
one interview based on validated structured questionnaire was conducted to assess the knowledge and practice. Photo
exhibition and demonstration of technique were done for feasibility.
Results: Only 22 out of 60 mothers (36.7 %) had adequate knowledge regarding KMC All the mothers who had adequate
knowledge were practicing KMC, mostly initiated KMC within 48 hours of birth.90% of mothers were willing to practice
KMC further after demonstration of KMC and the rest expressed inconvenience due to lack of privacy in their homes. All
the mothers felt it a useful technique and were willing to recommend to others.
Conclusion: Overall knowledge and practice regarding KMC is very low. But almost everyone was willing to practice
KMC further and recommend it to others after knowing about the benefits of KMC. Everyone showed positive attitude.
So, proper awareness and counselling in the antenatal period itself is needed to increase the practice of KMC, thereby
reducing neonatal mortality.