Are parenting interventions effective in improving the relationship between mothers and their preterm infants?

•Systematic review of parenting interventions.•Relationship quality between mothers and their preterm infants.•Heterogeneity of current parenting interventions.•Need for an integrated new parenting program.•Focus on cue-based responsive care.

AimTo systematically review the efficacy of parenting interventions in improving the quality of the relationship between mothers and preterm infants.MethodRandomized or quasi-randomized controlled trials (RCT) of parenting interventions for mothers of preterm infants where mother–infant relationship quality outcomes were reported. Databases searched: The Cochrane Library, PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO and Web of Science.ResultsSeventeen studies met the inclusion criteria, 14 with strong methodological quality. Eight parenting interventions were found to improve the quality of the mother–preterm infant relationship.ConclusionsHeterogeneity of the interventions calls for an integrated new parenting program focusing on cue-based, responsive care from the mother to her preterm infant to improve the quality of the relationship for these mother–preterm infant dyads.