Tips For Families with Preemies
November 10, 2009 by Eliza Ferree
Filed under Baby Care, Breastfeeding, Nutrition, Parenting
Gretchen Penny created the Easy Expression Handsfree pumping bra but when she met a mother for the first time that had a preemie she learned even more. Here’s her tips for all those new moms out there.
IMG: sxc.hu
Tips for Families with Preemies trying to Keep Healthy This Season
Employ Good Hand Washing: You don’t have to be an expert to know that hand washing is essential in keeping germs at bay. Preemies are more susceptible to infections and any one coming in contact with a preemie baby should wash his or her hands.
Keep Baby Warm This Winter: While preemies are in the hospital, their body temperature is constantly being monitored and kept warm. So when it’s time to bring your preemie home, it’s important to keep him or her warm and comfortable at home too. A good way to keep a preemie warm is by keeping a hat on his or her head, as most heat is lost through a baby’s head. Also be sure their hands and feet are toasty too!
Keep Breastfeeding. There is nothing healthier for your newborn baby than breast milk. If you can’t feed your baby directly because she is having trouble latching on, set up a good pumping routine. Like Suzy’s story, I recommend that you pump hands-free so you can hold and/or stroke your baby while you pump. Doing so aids in milk production and brings you closer to your baby.
Take care of yourself. Parents of preemies often find themselves spending hours and days, if not weeks, in the neo-natal intensive care unit. Plus, caring for a preemie can take an incredible amount of time. New moms should be sure to take care of themselves too! Don’t be shy about accepting help from well-intentioned family and friends and get plenty of rest, eat well and exercise moderately as recommended by your doctor.
Get Support: Parents of preemies can feel comforted in the fact that they are not alone and that there are support groups they can work with, such as your local March of Dimes Chapter or Preemies Today online and remote support groups. They can also seek support and encouragement from their doctors, nurses, or other parents.
