A new program in Gaza hospitals uses skin-to-skin contact to help premature infants grow stronger despite severe medical equipment shortages.
Rania Fadel recently gave birth to twin boys in Khan Younis. One son, Ilyas, required immediate medical care after his premature birth. He weighed only three pounds and faced serious health challenges.
Next, the hospital staff moved Ilyas to a special care unit. Rania felt relief when she finally held her son. She began using a method called kangaroo mother care.
Also, this technique involves skin-to-skin contact between mother and child. It also encourages exclusive breastfeeding. Rania said holding Ilyas made her feel incredibly happy and close to him.
Then, medical experts confirmed the benefits of this practice. It helps babies regulate their body temperature. It also improves their overall health outcomes significantly.
Furthermore, the World Health Organization supports this approach. Data shows it reduces newborn deaths by nearly one-third. It also helps infants grow stronger and leave the hospital faster.
However, doctors note that this method does not replace incubators. Some babies still need machines for breathing support. The hospital staff carefully monitors all infants during skin-to-skin sessions.
Meanwhile, Gaza faces a severe shortage of medical equipment. Many neonatal units were destroyed during the ongoing conflict. Hospitals now struggle with limited power and fewer incubators than before.
After that, nurses began training other mothers like Linda Abu Nasira. Linda practices skin-to-skin contact with her young daughter. She lives in a tent and faces daily hardships while raising her children.
Finally, these mothers find hope in the simple act of holding their babies. Every session helps the infants recover. The staff remains committed to providing the best care despite these difficult conditions.