Your Preemie

by Heather Long | More from this Blogger

19 Dec 2006 07:09 AM

The statistics tell us that one out of every eight babies is born before the pregnancy achieves 37 weeks and these babies are considered premature. Thanks to our modern medicine and research in areas in pediatric health, preemies have a greater chance at survival and a long life. Infants born at 28 weeks and weighing just 2 pounds have a 95% survival rate and that's amazing.

So It's Time To Bring Your Preemie Home

No matter when your preemie was born, as they grow stronger and get healthier - there will come a time when you are ready to bring them home. There are a few things you need to know to help you prepare to take care of your preemie and to prepare your home for it. Your preemie has likely spent some extra time in the hospital whether it's a few extra days or a few extra weeks, you'll visit a great deal before you introduce them to their new home.

You'll want to learn infant CPR and go over any emergency procedures that your infant might require. You will also want to go over everything with your pediatrician in order to identify any special needs your preemie might have. You'll want to know how to determine if they are eating well or if there is a problem and you may have monitors or equipment that you'll need to operate for a while. Ask all the questions you can think of and don't stop to call them back if you have more questions when you get home.

Mentally Prepare Yourself

The first year of your preemie's life is going to be one marked by change and growth. You need to remember that no baby develops exactly the same as the other. The milestones that you are looking for is going to be done in adjusted terms. Avoid comparing your preemie to a baby born at full gestation. A preemie born 8 weeks premature will likely achieve the development of a 2 month old by their 4-month birthday.

By mentally preparing yourself and adjusting your thinking, you will avoid disappointing or worrying yourself. You, like every other mom out there, are going to be in the best position to judge your baby's growth and development. There is a great deal of material out there supporting parents with their premature infants and your pediatrician will help you to understand and treat any problems with growth and development.

You'll make regular visits to your pediatrician and while you may go a little more frequently than a full-term baby might, that too will adjust over time as your baby achieves different milestones. Your pediatrician will continue to support you and your baby with both care and information.

There is a lot to talk about where preemies are concerned and we're going to spend some time on this subject over the next few days. If you have a preemie - I would love to hear your stories!

Related Articles:

Principles in Breastfeeding a Preemie

Do You Kangaroo?

Multiply the Love: Preterm Twins

Learn more about Heather Long

Heather Long is 35 years old and currently lives in Wylie, Texas. She has been a freelance writer for six years. Her husband and she met while working together at America Online over ten years ago.

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