Premature babies: Paediatrician's guide to preparing parents for preterm birth

New Delhi: A premature baby is born before 37 weeks of pregnancy. These babies often have low birth weight and may need help with breathing, feeding, and maintaining body temperature. This year’s theme, “Preparing the parents for a premature delivery and giving preterm babies a strong start,” focuses on helping families understand what to expect and how to support their newborns through the journey. With the appropriate medical care, awareness, and emotional support, preterm babies can overcome early challenges and grow up healthy and strong. Read on to know how parents can take care of their preterm babies.

In an interaction with TV9 English, Dr. Akshay Mehta, Senior Consultant - Neonatology & Paediatrics at Motherhood Hospitals, Greater Noida, explained how new parents can prepare themselves for a premature delivery.

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According to the World Health Organization (WHO), globally, prematurity is the leading cause of death in children under the age of 5 years. Preterm birth occurs for a variety of reasons. Most preterm births happen spontaneously, but some are due to medical reasons such as infections or other pregnancy complications that require early induction of labor or cesarean birth. Parents of preterm babies tend to face anxiety, fear, and uncertainty, especially when their child needs care in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Understanding the process and staying involved in the baby’s care can make a big difference. Premature babies may need to stay in the NICU for a few days or weeks, depending on their birth weight and gestational age. Babies are monitored for breathing, feeding, and temperature control 24/7. With advanced NICU facilities, even small babies tend to have a strong chance of survival and normal development. Parental presence, emotional connection, and kangaroo care play a big role in helping these tiny fighters recover faster.

Keep in mind

Parents can prepare themselves by talking to their doctor about risk factors such as high blood pressure, multiple pregnancy, or infections, which may increase the chance of early delivery. Going for antenatal checkups regularly helps doctors identify and manage complications early and improve the quality of life. Once the baby is ready to go home, follow-up visits will help to understand proper growth, nutrition, and vaccinations when it comes to the baby. Parents should follow the vaccination schedule designed by the expert. The expert will also educate you about kangaroo care, which is skin-to-skin contact that helps to bond with the baby. So, follow the instructions given by the doctor and ensure the baby’s healthy future.