 An
infant is considered premature if born before 37 weeks of gestation,
before they're physically ready for life outside the womb. They
need extra medical attention immediately after delivery, and perhaps
for several weeks afterwards.
For
the parents, premature birth can be a wrenching experience. Seeing
your precious new-born rushed off to the ICU and perhaps being unable
to hold him or feed him, can be devastating.
| Remember
Premature babies can be, and normally are, saved and go
on to live healthy lives |
|
Today
babies as small as 24 weeks plus can be saved, but as the brain
is often immature, they can develop cerebral palsy or mental retardation.
Babies above 28 weeks are normally fully developed except for their
lungs. They lack a vital ingredient - surfactant - which is necessary
for breathing. Artificial surfactant is available but is extremely
expensive. Often the use of a ventilator helps the preemie tide
over the first few dangerous days.
Sometimes
a premature delivery can be avoided -
-
Avoid stress during your pregnancy. Stress can lead to premature
labour.
-
If you have a high-risk pregnancy, consult your doctor regularly
and follow the medical advice completely.
- What
are the ways you can adopt to deal with premature babies?.
- Look
for a maternity
home with a tertiary care facility so that vital
time is not lost in transporting the baby. A tertiary care nursery
normally includes a ventilator amongst its facilities.
-
Ask to see your baby as soon as possible after delivery. Your
presence will be a comfort and a support to the baby. - As much
as you can, get involved in his care. Ask the doctors and nurses
caring for him how you can help.
.
| Remember
the Premature baby needs the strength and support and
comfort of your love more than ever |
|
If
you want to breast-feed, try
expressing the milk. This
way when your baby is able to feed, your milk will be available
to him.
Don't hesitate to ask questions
Don't listen to friends and relatives who insist on predicting doom
or pull a long face.
| Most
premature babies, despite initially slow weight gain,
do go on to develop absolutely normally. |
|
Follow
up is essential- the two main problems that can arise with premature
babies are related to sight and hearing. Go in for regular medical
checkups.
Keep him away from colds and infections.
| Don't
worry if the physical milestones are a little delayed
but report delays in mental milestones immediately. |
|
Enjoy
your baby. Follow your doctor's advice but don't deny him (or yourself)
the pleasures of outings and regular play.
|
