Background: Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) is a globally endorsed, low-cost skin-to-skin intervention that improves survival and physiological stability in preterm neonates. However, objective data regarding its effect on cerebral hemodynamics remain limited.

Objectives: To evaluate the impact of Kangaroo Mother Care on cerebral blood flow parameters in preterm neonates using transcranial Doppler ultrasonography.

Methods: This prospective observational study included 40 clinically and hemodynamically stable preterm neonates (gestational age 28–37 weeks) admitted to a tertiary neonatal intensive care unit. Middle cerebral artery Doppler indices and physiological parameters were assessed before initiation of KMC, after 60 minutes during KMC, and 60 minutes post-KMC.

Results: KMC was associated with a significant increase in peak systolic, end-diastolic, and mean cerebral blood flow velocities (p ≤ 0.030), along with a significant reduction in resistive and pulsatility indices (p ≤ 0.001), indicating improved cerebral perfusion. Heart rate decreased significantly (p < 0.001), oxygen saturation improved (p = 0.001), and blood pressure showed a modest but significant increase (p ≤ 0.048).

Conclusion: Kangaroo Mother Care is a safe, effective, and scalable intervention that enhances cerebral hemodynamics and physiological stability in preterm neonates. Its routine integration into neonatal care protocols may provide meaningful neuroprotective benefits, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, aligning with global neonatal health priorities.

Charan Ramakuja completed his MBBS from AJ Institute of Medical Sciences under the Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences. He obtained his MD in Pediatrics from The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University in 2025. He is currently pursuing a Fellowship in Neonatology at Manipal Hospitals under MAHE University. His academic interests include neonatal neuroprotection, cerebral hemodynamics, and evidence-based care of preterm infants.