In the NICU

• In the NICU, your baby receives special medical care.
• It's natural for you to feel frightened and confused.
• Become your baby's advocate and get involved in his care.

About 10 to 15 percent of babies born in the United States each year are treated in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Many babies are admitted to NICUs. Here are some of the reasons:

• Premature birth
• Difficult delivery
• Breathing problems 
• Infections
• Birth defects

Birth defects can include problems with the heart, body chemistry (metabolism) or structural systems of the newborn.

See also: Share your story

August 2009