So, You Are Having a Preemie

Premature birth is often very hard to predict. There are some people that have advanced warning, which may give them time to prepare. If you are like the majority of parents, and have been thrown into the world of preemies with no preparation, hopefully these nine insights can give you a little glimpse into the preemie experience…

1.

Nothing can really prepare you for having a premature baby. Even if you have been warned that your baby might come early, that still will not really prepare you for what is ahead. The experience can be isolating, overwhelming, emotional, terrifying, rewarding and everything in between. 

6.

You will get a crash course in medical terminology/acronyms (link to glossary). It can be overwhelming - and that is OK.

2.

The NICU (neonatal intensive care unit) is a mini-community. Aside from the doctors, nurses, respiratory specialists, occupational therapists, receptionists, lactation consultants, social workers and x-ray techs, there are parents just like you. Some are there for a night and others are there for months on end.

7.

Depending on how early your preemie is, your preemie’s appearance may not be what you are expecting:

  1. Eyes may be fused shut

  2. Skin will be very fragile.

  3. Skin may also be red and wrinkled

  4. Lanugo, or fine unpigmented hair, may be covering your baby. 

  5. Sex organs may not yet look as expected.

3.

The NICU is noisy. Seriously. Lots of beeps and alarms and breathing machines.

8.

You may not be able to hold your baby at first. Once you can, make sure you (and your partner) do this as often as your preemie will allow. It's important for all of you, not just for bonding, but also for your baby's development.

4.

5.

Not all preemies are the same, so no need to try and compare your preemie to someone else's. Your preemie will have their own set of challenges, setbacks, victories - and they will do them all on their own time.

Everyone, and we do mean everyone, will tell you the NICU is like a rollercoaster. You have ups and downs, sometimes all in the same hour. And this is true. There will be days where nothing happens - and other days where your baby struggles. Just remember to breathe and know that what is currently happening could change at any moment.

9.

You are the MOST important part of your preemie's medical team. Get involved. Change diapers, help with baths, feed your preemie (bottle, breast, pushing food into the feeding tube).