About 15 million premature babies are born annually worldwide. It means they are delivered alive before the 37th week of gestation instead of the normal 40th week. The baby can weigh about 2.26 kgs or less while the average child usually weighs about 3.17 kgs. They will be smaller than usual without protective fat. Fret not. Most preterm babies begin to appear as a typical newborn after a certain period. They are admitted to the NICU to offer the right support and care to avoid health complications like apnoea or anaemia.

The best pediatrician in Hyderabad will not send preemies home until they are completely healthy and fully ready to step out of the hospital. Now you will have to handle the baby all by yourself at home. It is not too different from caring for normal infants. With some basic knowledge and planning, parents will be able to raise the child well.

Ø  Breastfeeding

You might need to feed the infant via tubes. It will go through the nose or mouth to their stomach. Try to express milk by hand or with a pump. You can also use special formula milk for preterm babies to be fed by bottle. This is crucial if they are unable to latch. They will require milk at least 8-10 times a day. Try to avoid a gap of more than 4 hours.

Also, Read - Breastfeeding Tips for New Mothers

Ø  Sleep Care

Premature babies have a more disturbed sleep pattern when compare to normal children. Try to make sure the room is warm and comfortable. Dress them in light cotton clothes. Do not put them on their stomach, especially after a feed. It is also necessary to avoid infant death syndrome. The mattress must be firm for back support. Avoid too many pillows and blankets to ensure safe breathing. Dim the lights and reduce noise as much as possible. Keep constant check since preemies tend to take shorter naps than regular children.

Ø  Bath Care

Make sure the health of the baby is stable. Now you can consider a warm bath. But it should be limited to no more than 2 to 3 times a week. Plain water would be enough. In case you need soaps, pick a mild and fragrance-free one to avoid irritating the skin. Gently pat and rub the baby with soft microfibre towels to keep them dry afterwards.

Ø  Avoid Public Places

The best pediatrician in Hyderabad will recommend against visiting crowded places with preemies. They are more likely to catch serious infections. So, avoid outdoors for the first few weeks. Consider covering them well for doctor visits. Try to take a personal car instead of public transports to minimize the risks of disease contraction and human interaction.

Ø  Limit Visitors

Postpone family visits until the little one has grown strong immunity. Anyone with sickness must strictly avoid touching the baby. Each guest should wash their hands before interacting with the premature child. Further, make sure the visiting nanny is in washed clothes, has short and clean nails and tied hair before handling the baby. Taking these small steps can reduce the vulnerabilities and keep the baby safe.

Also, Read - BABY IMMUNIZATION SCHEDULE / VACCINATION CHART

Keep regular contact with a trusted child specialist in Bangalore. Consult for any kind of unusual activity like slower breathing or feeding issues in the child. It will help you stay safe and offer quick help, if needed.

Also, Read - Fruits to Avoid During Pregnancy Diet

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