Randomized controlled trial of skin-to-skin contact from birth versus conventional incubator for physiological stabilization in 1200 g to 2199 g newborns

Publication of the report of Bergman et al. [ 1] should stimulate replications by others. If these investigators' findings are confirmed, and clear guidelines for the care of premature infants in the kangaroo method in the first 6 h and beyond are published, with particular attention to warm coverings for the babies' backs, this research could benefit large numbers of premature infants in the Third World. Conclusion: As the authors indicate, skin-to-skin contact from the birth of premature infants may also be a good alternative in First World settings.