Member-only story

The Best You Can Do To Help Your Preterm Infant: A Comprehensive Guide for Parents

Louis Hayes

·18.5k Followers· Follow

Published in Kangaroo Care: The Best You Can Do To Help Your Preterm Infant

6 min read

995 View Claps

80 Respond

Save

Listen

Kangaroo Care: The Best You Can Do to Help Your Preterm Infant

by Susan Ludington-Hoe

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7336 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	261 pages

Preterm infants, born before 37 weeks of gestation, are at an increased risk for a variety of health problems due to their immature development. However, with proper care, preterm infants can thrive and reach their full potential.

This article provides a comprehensive guide for parents on the best ways to support their preterm infant's growth and well-being. We will cover topics such as:

Kangaroo care
Breastfeeding
Developmental care
Follow-up care
Home care
Support for parents

Kangaroo Care

Kangaroo care is a skin-to-skin method of holding your preterm infant. It involves placing your infant on your bare chest, between your breasts.

Kangaroo Care Is A Skin To Skin Method Of Holding Your Preterm Infant. Kangaroo Care: The Best You Can Do To Help Your Preterm Infant

Kangaroo care has many benefits for preterm infants, including:

Improved temperature regulation
Increased heart rate and oxygen levels
Reduced stress levels
Improved sleep patterns
Enhanced bonding between parent and infant

To perform kangaroo care, simply place your preterm infant on your bare chest, between your breasts. You can cover your infant with a blanket or towel if you are chilly. Kangaroo care can be done for as little as 30 minutes or as long as several hours.

Breastfeeding

Breast milk is the ideal food for preterm infants. It is packed with nutrients that are essential for their growth and development. Breast milk also contains antibodies that help protect preterm infants from infection.

However, breastfeeding a preterm infant can be challenging. Preterm infants may have difficulty latching on and sucking. They may also tire easily and need to eat frequently.

There are a number of things you can do to make breastfeeding easier for your preterm infant, including:

Start breastfeeding as soon as possible after your infant is born.
Be patient and offer your infant the breast often.
Help your infant to latch on properly.
Take breaks when needed.
Seek help from a lactation consultant if you are having difficulties.

Developmental Care

Developmental care is a specialized type of care that is designed to promote the growth and development of preterm infants. It includes activities such as:

Positioning the infant in a variety of positions to promote movement and prevent deformities
Providing sensory stimulation through touch, sound, and light
Encouraging interaction between the infant and their parents

Developmental care can be provided in the NICU or at home. It is an important part of helping preterm infants reach their full potential.

Follow-Up Care

Preterm infants require close follow-up care after they are discharged from the hospital. This care is important to ensure that the infant is growing and developing properly.

Follow-up care typically includes regular checkups with the pediatrician, developmental screenings, and vision and hearing tests. The pediatrician may also recommend other tests or therapies, depending on the infant's needs.

It is important to follow all of the pediatrician's recommendations for follow-up care. This care is essential to ensuring that the preterm infant is healthy and thriving.

Home Care

Caring for a preterm infant at home can be challenging, but it is also rewarding. Here are some tips for home care:

Create a safe and comfortable environment for your infant.
Follow the pediatrician's instructions for feeding, bathing, and diapering your infant.
Monitor your infant's temperature, breathing, and activity level closely.
Call the pediatrician immediately if you have any concerns about your infant's health.

It is also important to take care of yourself during this time. Ask for help from family and friends, and don't be afraid to reach out to a support group for parents of preterm infants.

Support for Parents

Parents of preterm infants often experience a range of emotions, including anxiety, stress, and grief. It is important to seek support during this time.

There are a number of resources available to support parents of preterm infants, including:

Support groups
Online forums
Counselors
Social workers

Don't hesitate to reach out for help if you are struggling. Support is available, and it can make a big difference in your journey as a parent of a preterm infant.

Caring for a preterm infant is a challenging but rewarding experience. By following the advice in this article, you can help your infant reach their full potential.

Remember, you are not alone. There are many resources available to support you and your family during this time.

Additional Resources