Kangaroo mother care and zero separation with Dr Nils Bergman

Dr Nils Bergman calls himself a Public Health Physician, and currently promotes and researches skin-to- skin contact on a full time basis. He is a Research Associate at the Karolinska Institute, Sweden. Dr. Bergman was born in Sweden and raised in Zimbabwe, where he also later worked as a mission doctor. He received his medical degree (MB ChB) at the University of Cape Town, a Diploma in Child Health at Uppsala University, and later a Masters in Public Health at the University of the Western Cape. During his years in Zimbabwe he completed a doctoral dissertation (MD, equivalent to PhD) on deadly scorpion stings. He has worked in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Sweden, and his last posting was Senior Medical Superintendent of Mowbray Maternity Hospital in Cape Town, overseeing 18000 births per year. He is married to Jill, and father to Rebecka, Simon and Emma, and has five grandchildren.

In this episode, Dr. Bergman delves into the critical importance of maintaining skin-to-skin contact throughout the first day of a newborn's life. He explains how this practice not only connects and wires the baby's brain but also has profound effects on the mother.

Dr. Bergman sheds light on the pivotal role of Oxytocin, often dubbed the 'love hormone,' which he eloquently describes as the hormone of resilience, vital for both mother and baby.

We further explore the crucial significance of focusing not only on the first 1000 days of a child's life but also on the first 1000 minutes. Dr. Bergman passionately explains how these early moments are foundational for long-term health and emotional resilience.

Additionally, we dive into the detailed work behind the latest version of the WHO Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) document. Dr. Bergman shares insights into the creation of this and introduces us to the concept of 'nurture-science.' He discusses how this emerging field emphasizes understanding the biological and emotional nurturing essential for optimal human development.

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The information shared in this podcast is for general educational purposes only and is not intended as medical or legal advice. Always consult with a qualified professional regarding individual health concerns.

The Midwives’ Cauldron podcast does not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the information provided and accepts no liability for any loss or harm arising from reliance on this content.