Secure Preterm Baby’s Health with Right Care
The birth of a baby brings great delight to a family. However, all that ecstasy can turn into stress if your baby is born prematurely before the start of 37th week of pregnancy. Preterm babies face an increased risk of complications and need extra care. Doctors may keep the child in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for specialized care to address any complications.
Premature babies need extra care at home too. Read on to know more.
Breastfeed the baby
Breast milk is crucial for a premature baby. Ensure exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months. If the baby doesn’t suck or latch on properly, then learn from a doctor or lactation consultant about it.
Maintain right temperature
Preterm babies need to stay in a temperature that is neither too warm nor cold as low temperature can cause fever and too much warmth can cause cot death. Hence, dress up the baby in layers, for example using a vest, sleepsuit or keep him/her in a blanket. Also, never leave the newborn undressed.
Watch out for any unusual symptoms
If you experience unusual signs & symptoms such as breathing difficulty, high fever, convulsions, decreased activity, reduced feeding or frequent vomiting, then see a doctor immediately.
Talk to your preemie
You should touch the premature infant and talk to him/her as much as possible.
Don’t provide solid food without consulting
Premature children’s milestones may differ from their normal peers. Offer them solid food only after consulting a doctor when the child is 4 to 6 months old from his/her original due date. If the newborn still has some problem in swallowing food, then ask the doctor for a special diet.
Prevent infections & get baby immunized
Having low immunity is common among premature infants. The people who touch the baby must have clean hands. Do not allow any person affected by flu/cough/cold to come near the child. To secure the wellbeing of the preterm baby, you should get him/her vaccinated as per the schedule of a normal child.
Let the infant sleep well
Preterm infants sleep more than the full-term babies, but they do it for shorter periods. Ensure better sleep by laying him/her on the back only and maintain the right temperature. Providing a quiet and dimly lit environment is also a must and can reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome for the baby.
Watch baby’s growth
The growth of a premature child may not be as good as that of a normal baby in the first two years. Don’t worry, as preterm kids grow in spurts and catch up with their normal peers in some time. However, you should visit the doctor to get your newborn’s growth checked-up.
Maintain hygiene, use a disinfectant to clean door handles and floor, wash baby’s clothes with antibacterial soap and do not allow visitors till the baby starts weighing 3 kgs. Focus only on your baby’s growth! The ones who really care for you will definitely understand your concern!
