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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Music by Joseph McDade


Disclaimer
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.