When a baby arrives in the world prematurely, they are greeted by a hostile environment. Full of bright lights, wires, and constant sounds that can be overwhelming. Amid this experience, “comfort octopus toys” have emerged in the maternity ward of the Vladimir Ilich Lenin University General Hospital. As an innovative resource for newborns in critical situations. Providing them with companionship and a sense of security during their most vulnerable moments.
The “comfort octopus” goes beyond a simple toy. Its design is carefully crafted to fulfill a special purpose. The curled tentacles simulate the umbilical cord and allow babies to curl their fingers around them. This provides them with an emotional connection that reminds them of the warmth and security of the womb.
Also this helps alleviate the anxiety that their environment can generate. They are made with hypoallergenic cotton. Without loose parts or plastic eyes, and have strong seams to minimize any risk.
For premature babies like Leilianis, who was born at 32 weeks on July 18th. Weighing 1,600 grams, the “comfort octopus Toy” was a great help during her hospitalization. According to her mother, Daniela de la Cruz Llorente, it was a “great blessing.”
Dr. Ana Nastia Tamayo Ortiz, head of the Neonatology service, highlighted the importance of this initiative in neonatal care. “We recently started using ‘comfort octopuses’ in the service. And having the babies with them has been magical.” When they grab the octopus’s tentacles, they think it’s the umbilical cord. And this prevents them from grabbing the endotracheal tube or an orogastric tube. It’s truly beautiful to see the results of something so simple, yet so important.
It has been shown that contact with the octopus helps calm the baby. It regulates their heart rate, and promotes a more comfortable environment. Thus, the comfort octopus becomes the baby’s first friend.
We are grateful to the creative hands that make and donate these octopuses. So that babies can have a better stay in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and in the Skin-to-Skin Room.
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