Your big day is coming soon. You’re soon going to be a parent. But suddenly, the doctors tell you that you may have a preemie. You get frightened. You weren’t ready for that. Perhaps you didn’t even take any prenatal class called “Caring for Premature Babies.” Don’t stress out. It doesn’t matter if you missed your prenatal classes. We are here to help.
Before you give birth to a preemie, it’s vital to know all about it and be prepared. This guide is for those who may face premature birth or already have given birth to a preemies baby. Let’s dive in!
Tips to Look After Your Preemie
It’s daunting to bring home a preemie, even when you have been expecting this baby for a long time. No one from the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) will be there to help. You’ll be on your own. Don’t get upset. You’re about to feel good and relaxed:
Say yes to nesting
The doctors at the hospital hardly want you to go with the premature baby. Both you and your baby need help from experts. For that, they may offer you nesting – self-caring for your baby for a night with doctors and nurses available at the press of a button. If the hospital offers that, accept it.
Nesting will help you look after your baby and boost your confidence. It’s a mock test, preparing you for a more extended test. You’ll feed your baby, change diapers, and carefully monitor the baby’s health. If successful, the doctors will happily release you. Otherwise, they may suggest you stay for a few more days.
Get experts’ contact details
Before leaving the hospital, note down all relevant experts’ contact details. Even if it isn’t your first time giving premature birth, you must always have experts’ numbers and emails.
Breastfeeding preemies is pretty challenging. You may face issues such as latching on, establishing your milk supply, and getting used to pumping. You may also want to rent a hospital-grade breast pump until the baby adequately starts feeding from the mother’s breast.
Get that medical equipment
Premature babies are more sensitive than full-term babies. They need more care and attention. You may require extra equipment, such as a CPAP machine or oxygen equipment. Although these devices are easy to operate, you still care while dealing with them for the baby. Make sure you have read the manual and consult the doctor.
If not satisfied, call American Kids Care on 164-1674-9194.
Prepare preemies wardrobe
You may have bought your baby’s clothes before delivery. Now that you know you’ve or already have the preemie, you must go shopping again. Buy clothes and diapers fitting your child. You may also buy a particular car seat made for preemies.
Feed your preemie more often
Premature babies are weak with a small stomachs. They can’t hold the same amount of food in their stomach as a full-term could. So you can’t certainly feed them the same. However, you can increase the feeding frequency.
Feed your preemie more often than if you had a full-term baby. That will quickly help them grow and gain strength.
It could be a tedious job for tired parents, but they will do everything for the love of their newborn. And things will get to a routine once your baby has gained its full strength.
Sleeping tips
Premature babies may sleep on the back or sides. They’re born weak. Be sure to put them to bed in a position that doesn’t disturb their breathing or lungs.
Moreover, keep the room temperature between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit.
Regular checkups are highly advisable. You may contact American Kids Care to understand the best sleeping position for your baby.
Protect your baby from germs
Babies are sensitive. Protecting them from germs is necessary. Preemies are even more prone to germs. Their immune system is still underdeveloped. They may get sick more often than full-term babies. Avoid taking them to public places. Also, don’t smoke around them. Not to mention, staying neat and tidy is also a must thing for you.
Expect the unexpected
You have already faced a challenge in your life. Be prepared to look for more bumps on the road.
Life isn’t easy. No matter how well you plan your life, you’ll face uninvited problems. But every problem has a time. After that, it vanishes. Similarly, premature birth is a short-lived concern. It will vanish once your baby is in better health.
Don’t lose hope. Just stay motivated, active, and strong. Being a parent of a preemie isn’t easy. You may have to sacrifice your sleep and comfort. Remember you’re (or will have) to do that for the better health of your child.
This burden is, however, reduced if the baby is under NICU observation. They may not allow you to leave with the baby until both are in good health.
Want to Know More About Preemies?
There’s a lot more to know about preemies. It’s always a good idea to consult before delivering the baby or when you have a preemie and, of course, until the baby is in good shape.
You also need to take good care of your health. Only healthy parents can take good care of their preemie.
If you need more details about premature births and babies or want special care for them, we suggest getting in touch with experts like American Kids Care. The doctors at the facility are highly experienced and know all about premature births.
