Skin-to-skin contact for preterm infants at birth

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This randomized controlled trial investigates the effects of immediate skin-to-skin contact on moderate and late preterm infants born vaginally. Participants will either be separated from their mothers after birth or receive skin-to-skin contact, allowing researchers to compare outcomes related to gene expression in stress signaling pathways and overall infant development. The study aims to establish a link between early skin-to-skin contact and improved long-term psychosocial and neurological outcomes for these infants.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* preterm birth between gestational age of 32 0/7 and 36 6/7 weeks
* vaginal delivery
* singleton
* informed consent before birth

Exclusion Criteria:

* malformations or syndromes of the infant
* resuscitation of the infant
* maternal psychological or severe physical illness
* lack of German language skills

Where it's running

• University hospital of Cologne, Department of Neonatology
  Cologne, Northrhine-westfalia, Germany Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Katrin Mehler, PD Dr. — University of Cologne
• Study coordinator: Katrin Mehler, PD Dr.
• Email: katrin.mehler@uk-koeln.de
• Phone: 004922147885663

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.