A Mother’s Sacrifice: Lived Experiences on Kangaroo Mother Care

Abstract

This study aimed to document the lived experiences of women practicing Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) and to determine the difficulties and feelings encountered while implementing Kangaroo Mother Care and aimed to document the perceptions of mothers for the preparation and experience of KMC and to describe the experiences of the mothers who had implemented KMC. The study utilized the qualitative – descriptive method. The treatment used in the study is the Collaizzi’s 7 step model. The data were analyzed by extracting significant statements and combined into themes. Composite descriptions were then constructed to describe the meaning and essences of the experiences, representing the group as a whole. A phenomenological approach was used. The sample comprised of five mothers who were practicing KMC in the post-natal ward, and were discharged and were still practicing KMC. Data were collected by means of face-to-face interviews. These interviews provided the researcher with rich, personal and narrative. The conclusions of the study were based from the categories that emanated from the identified themes. These are the following; first, the participants are well informed on the importance and uses of KMC. Their knowledge about the practice helps improve their adherence to practice. Second, KMC does not only helps on the wellbeing of the baby but also on the improvement of maternal and child bonding. Third, KMC helps on the baby’s wellbeing. The participants observed improvements on the infant. Fourth, the participants receive help from their spouses and other healthcare providers. The support they get determines the extent of willingness and participation of the mothers in performing KMC. Fifth, not all mothers who practice KMC have a successful result. Sixth, Early termination of KMC was due to the work and other responsibilities of the participants at home. Lastly, the participant was apprehensive about KMC the first time but vanished as they observed changes in the infant.