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).
Building Your Confidence
You've had a premature baby, and you're still in shock. It's natural to feel anxious about taking care of your tiny baby. Here are some suggestions.
Becoming an Informed Parent
The more you know about your baby's medical condition and care, the more you can look out for his or her best interests.
Getting Close with Your Baby
Sometimes there are barriers between you and your baby in the NICU. But you can overcome some of them and feel close to your newborn.
Holding Your Baby Close: Kangaroo Care
Kangaroo care is a type of skin-to-skin contact between you and your baby. This is a precious, safe and beneficial way to be close to your baby.
Feeding Your Baby
Before your baby was born, you may have imagined what it would be like to feed her. Now that your baby is in the NICU, you may need to adjust your plans.
Caring for Multiples
If you have more than one baby, you have the challenge of getting to know each infant's needs and personality. You can fit your responses to meet each child's needs.
Paying for NICU Care
NICU care is expensive. It will be a great relief if you address this issue early in your newborn's NICU stay. Insurance and Medicaid pay some NICU costs.
Preemies: The Essential Guide
Preemies: The Essential Guide for Parents of Premature Babies is an engaging, fact-filled reference that guides parents through their many questions and worries.
Resources
This list describes books and Web resources that help parents learn about parenting their premature baby in the NICU.
