#USA #Orlando #Maternal Health #Postpartum Care #Joeyband

Introduction

In recent years, there has been a significant shift toward promoting skin-to-skin care (SSC) in postpartum settings, with hospitals across North America reporting compelling outcomes associated with the use of the Joeyband®—a groundbreaking support device designed to facilitate skin-to-skin contact. As this practice becomes a standard of care worldwide, new clinical data underscores the positive effects of the Joeyband® in improving health outcomes for both mothers and newborns.

What is Joeyband®?

Joeyband® is a patented, FDA-registered device aimed at enhancing skin-to-skin care during crucial bonding moments following childbirth. Used in over 200 hospitals in North America and the UK, it secures newborns on the birthing parent's chest, ensuring a safe and uninterrupted experience that is vital for both clinical and emotional recovery. As hospitals adopt this innovative tool, measurable benefits are being observed across various key indicators.

Reduction in Opioid Use and Anxiety

One of the major advantages noted in hospitals utilizing Joeyband® is a reduction in opioid use among postpartum patients. Research has shown that SSC can significantly decrease pain and anxiety during the recovery period. For example, at Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center, clinical quality outcomes manager Camie Bruhweiler reported that 70% of cesarean patients using Joeyband® were able to hold their babies skin-to-skin in the operating room, and 58% experienced no need for opioids during their stay.

The calming effects of SSC have also positively impacted maternal anxiety levels, leading to healthier experiences for both mothers and their newborns. Nurses reported improved comfort levels with administering SSC, further contributing to a supportive environment for new families.

Health Benefits for Babies

For newborns, the Joeyband® has shown remarkable improvements in critical health outcomes. It has been associated with increased breastfeeding rates and reduced instances of conditions such as hypothermia and hypoglycemia, both of which are common reasons for NICU admissions. Data from BJC HealthCare revealed a notable 19.6% increase in exclusive breastfeeding rates among mothers who utilized the device during cesarean recovery, highlighting how immediate skin-to-skin contact can significantly facilitate breastfeeding success.

Additionally, at Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C., the use of Joeybands in caring for babies with congenital heart defects provided insight into the device's role in alleviating maternal anxiety. The results indicated that even low-dose SSC is capable of positively influencing mothers’ stress markers, thereby fostering a nurturing and stress-reducing environment for both mother and child.

Economic Implications for Healthcare Systems

The financial aspect of adopting Joeyband® is also noteworthy. Early data suggests that newborns who benefit from skin-to-skin contact can be discharged 1.1 to 2.4 days earlier, leading to substantial cost savings for families—estimated between $3,500 and $13,000 per day. Furthermore, Joeyband® addresses various high-cost complications, including healthcare challenges related to inadequate breastfeeding and postpartum depression, which have a significant economic burden on the healthcare system.

A Call to Action

As the evidence mounts for the benefits of Joeyband® in clinical settings, its presence at the upcoming AWHONN 2025 event marks an important moment for maternal health leaders to acknowledge and promote innovative solutions in postpartum care. Sarah-Almaza Cox, co-founder of Joeyband, emphasizes the need for equitable, evidence-based care—especially for underserved communities—by utilizing devices that contribute to more holistic health outcomes for mothers and babies.

Conclusion

The clinical findings surrounding the Joeyband® device demonstrate a positive shift in postpartum care, supporting the growing emphasis on skin-to-skin contact as a standard practice. The benefits of decreased opioid use, reduced maternal anxiety, and improved health outcomes for newborns position Joeyband® as an essential tool for hospitals aiming to enhance the well-being of mothers and babies alike. Through continued research and implementation, the healthcare community can pave the way for transformative changes in maternal and neonatal care that are accessible to all. For more information, visit www.joeyband.com.