Can Skin-to-Skin and Mom's voice boost preemie brain power?

NCT ID NCT03232931

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Emory University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether a combination of therapist skin-to-skin care and a device that plays the mother's voice when the baby sucks on a pacifier could improve brain development in preterm infants. 248 babies born between 32 and 36 weeks gestation were enrolled. The goal was to see if this multisensory intervention could lead to better language and motor skills later in childhood.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Therapist skin-to-skin care and contingent parent's voice exposure (Pacifier Activated Lullaby)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could point toward a simple, parent-led therapy to support brain development in premature babies.
What could go wrong: This is a completed study, but results may not apply to all preterm infants. The intervention requires parent involvement, which may not be possible for all families.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Premature Birth

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

PRETERM INFANT

Contacts and locations

Locations

Emory University Hospital Midtown

Atlanta, Georgia, 30308, United States
Grady Memorial Hospital

Atlanta, Georgia, 30303, United States
Nationwide Children's Hospital

Columbus, Ohio, 43205, United States

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