Experiences of caregivers of twins with bronchopulmonary dysplasia and retinopathy of prematurity: a phenomenological study.

INTRODUCTION: The premature birth of twins with bronchopulmonary dysplasia and/or retinopathy of prematurity represents an emotional, social, and financial challenge for families. OBJECTIVE: To understand the lived experiences of caregivers of premature twins diagnosed with bronchopulmonary dysplasia and retinopathy of prematurity in a Kangaroo Mother Care program in Bogotá, Colombia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A phenomenological study was conducted with seven caregivers of premature twins enrolled in a Kangaroo Mother Care program between 2020 and 2022. Virtual semi-structured interviews were transcribed and analyzed using content analysis, identifying thematic categories such as emotional experiences, access to health services, and family reorganization. Ethical considerations and confidentiality were ensured. RESULTS: Three main categories emerged: emotional experience, caregiving challenges, and socioeconomic impact. The latter included reconfiguring family roles, financial burden, and coping strategies such as community support. DISCUSSION: The experience of caregivers of premature twins with chronic conditions reveals a multidimensional burden that calls for comprehensive, family-centered care models with ongoing interdisciplinary support and public policies that strengthen the resilience and sustainability of caregiving. CONCLUSION: The importance of an interdisciplinary, family-centered, and humanized approach to neonatal care is emphasized. Future research should expand the sample and explore targeted interventions for this population.