Evaluating sensory stimulation to improve parent-infant interactions in very premature babies

Evaluation of a Sensory-tonic Stimulation on Development of Parent-infant Interaction and Social Cognition in Very Premature Children

Not applicable Interventional CHU de Reims · NCT04380051

This study is testing whether sensory stimulation techniques, like skin-to-skin contact and massages, can help improve the bonding and interactions between parents and their very premature babies.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment120 (estimated)
AgesN/A to 1 Day
SexAll
SponsorCHU de Reims Academic / other
Locations1 site (Reims)
Trial IDNCT04380051 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to assess the effects of sensory-tonic stimulation on the development of interactions between parents and their very premature infants, as well as the infants' social cognition. Very preterm infants, often born before 32 weeks of gestation, face unique challenges that can hinder early bonding experiences due to their separation from parents and exposure to stressful environments. The intervention includes tactile stimuli such as skin-to-skin contact and massages, which are designed to enhance neuroplasticity and support healthy development. By focusing on these early interactions, the study seeks to improve attachment behaviors and future relationships.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are very preterm infants born before 32 weeks of gestation whose parents are willing to participate.

Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit include those born before 25 weeks of gestation, with a birth weight less than 600 grams, or with congenital malformations or hemodynamic instability.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance the emotional and cognitive development of very premature infants, leading to better long-term outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with early interventions in very preterm infants, suggesting that this approach may be beneficial.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
inclusion criteria :

* very preterm child (born before 32 weeks of amenorrhoea)
* parents agreeing to participate to the study

exclusion criteria :

* child born before 25 weeks of amenorrhoea
* child with a birth weight less than 600 grams
* child with congenital malformation
* child with hemodynamic instability

Where this trial is running

Reims

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Very Preterm Birth
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.