Home » Pregnancy & Parenting  » Childbirth and after » Problems associated with premature babies

1. Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS): RDS is a breathing problem caused by the immaturity of the premature infant's lungs. It may be difficult for a premature infant to breathe. Infants with such problems may need supplementary oxygen or a respirator.

2. Greater susceptibility to infections and likelihood of contracting jaundice.

3. Very premature babies are at a risk of bleeding in the brain.

4. Retinopathy of Prematurity. (ROP): A problem affecting light sensitive inner lining of the eye. In severe cases it can lead to loss of vision.

Can a mother breast feed her premature baby

There are many advantages of giving breast milk to premature infants. This milk contains protein, amino acids and anti-oxidants such as beta-carotene. It increases the survival chances of the baby and reduces the risk of retinopathy. However, breast feeding the baby may be difficult, because if the baby is small, it will have problems in sucking. Most hospitals have lactation specialists who provide assistance to a new mom.

Care of premature infants after going home

Before you take your baby home, feel free to clarify all your queries from the doctor. Although premature babies sleep for more hours each day than normal full term babies, they sleep for shorter periods of time and wake up more often. Premature babies have more frequent trips to paediatricians, neonatologists, opthalmologists and psychologists for evaluations.

Touching the baby

Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is designed to take care of premature babies. Such babies are kept in incubators till doctors declare them out of danger. Studies have shown that it is very important to touch the baby. Gently touching, snuggling and cuddling (if your baby is stable enough) will reduce stress for the infant.

Baby's growth and development

Premature babies may not grow at the same rate as full term babies for the first two years. They are generally smaller during this time. But afterwards they definitely catch up with full term babies. Doctors may recommend a special diet programme comprising of supplementary iron and vitamins to help them grow and stay healthy. There are special growth charts for premature babies to keep you informed of your baby's growth and development.

Read Comments.Add your views... Click Here