The effect of maternal scent-infused blanket on the stress level, crying duration and physiological parameters of premature newborns.
J Matern Fetal Neonatal MedMay 3, 2026 (epub)
Clinical ResearchPediatrics
Shahla Shafaati Laleh, Sevil Inal, Mojgan Mirghafourvand
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In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled trial assessed the impact of a maternal scent-infused blanket on stress levels, crying duration, and physiological parameters in 69 premature infants in the NICU. The results indicated that the maternal scent group had significantly lower stress scores and crying durations compared to the unscented and control groups (p < 0.001).
Key findings
- Maternal scent-infused blanket group had lower Newborn Stress Scale scores compared to other groups (p < 0.001).
- Crying duration was significantly shorter in the maternal scent group than in the unscented and control groups (p < 0.001).
- Heart rate and oxygen saturation showed significant differences among groups during exposure (p < 0.001).
Why it matters
The findings suggest that maternal scent can be a simple, non-pharmacological intervention to help reduce stress and crying in premature infants, potentially enhancing their comfort and well-being in the NICU.