PARENTS bonded better with babies born prematurely if they could watch them round-the-clock on a webcam, a study has found.

Researchers from Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) conducted the first in-depth analysis of the views of parents and professionals using webcams to assist the early bonding process.

It included interviews with 30 mothers and fathers and 18 professionals, including nurses, midwives, nursery nurses and doctors, in a Scottish hospital over a six-month period.

The majority of parents said they felt closer to their infant as a result, and that the technology enhanced their emotional wellbeing and improved post-birth recovery.

Many parents said the technology allowed them to “feel that they were with their baby” even during periods of separation. It also meant they were able to be more responsive to their babies’ needs – for example, seeing their baby, helped mothers to produce breast milk.

One mother of an eight-week premature baby said: “When I had my little boy [also admitted to a neonatal unit] I couldn’t see him straightaway, whereas, this time, having the camera means I can see her constantly, she’s right beside my bed, really. Also, with things like expressing milk, I’ve found that a lot easier.”

However, a small minority in the study reported that the ability to see their baby round the clock heightened their anxiety rather than decreasing it.

One father of a six-week premature baby said: “It’s a double-edged sword using the webcam, I would say. You can see what’s happening but you don’t always know what’s happening.”

Dr Susan Kerr, GCU’s School of Health & Life Sciences, said: “Further work is required to assess the cost-effectiveness of webcam technology and also to evaluate its use in the family home following the mother’s discharge from hospital; currently it is only available in the hospital.

“While mothers are commonly discharged after a few days, their premature baby may remain in neonatal care for weeks or even months. Webcam access at home could mean the difference between stressful anxiety and peace of mind for new parents.”

The study was published in BMC Paediatrics.