Parenting in the NICU
When your baby arrives prematurely or sick, you are thrown into a whole new world with new expectations, decisions and language. Here's help on parenting a baby in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
Coping with the NICU Experience
Having a baby in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is very stressful for parents. The uncertainty, the highs and lows, and the decisions all take their toll.
Family & Friends
While your baby is in the NICU, you may feel torn between your infant and the needs of your other children. Grandparents, other relatives and friends will want to know how to help.
Leaving the NICU
The big day is approaching! Your baby is leaving the NICU, either to step-down care or to finally go home. How should you prepare to make sure the transition goes as smoothly as possible?
Caring for Your Baby
There is no better place for your baby than home with you! But you may be feeling a bit nervous. Remember: All parents feel a little jittery when they take their new baby home.
Feeding Your Baby
Feeding is the central activity between parent and baby. It’s a time when relationships are developed and bonds are strengthened.
As Your Child Grows
What is normal development? Learn the milestones to look for up to 2 years of age. Find out where to go for special help if your baby needs it.
Moving Forward
Once your baby is home, it's time to start enjoying the newest member of your family. Take time to just hold, play with and stroke your baby. Get to know her! And move forward from the NICU experience together.
Grief & Loss
If it becomes clear that your baby's NICU journey seems to be turning away from home, you will need to make decisions about how you and your baby will spend your remaining time together.
Glossary
A neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) can be like a foreign country. You need to learn new language, tests and equipment in order to make the most informed decisions for your baby. This glossary can help.
March of Dimes Helps
One in every 10 babies born in the U.S. is admitted to a newborn intensive care unit (NICU) because of premature birth or another medical condition. Having a baby hospitalized in a NICU, can be frightening, confusing and overwhelming for parents.
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