Use breast milk. The first milk that comes in after a woman has given birth is called colostrum. Colostrum is a very nutritious substance full of antibodies that will help your child. Many preemies have a weak or undeveloped sucking reflex. To combat this problem consider buying or renting a breast pump. Hospitals will very often then place the pumped milk directly into a baby’s stomach. Studies have shown that breast milk is particularly important for premature babies who often need the extra benefits this substance provides.
If you are having problems getting or maintaining a milk supply consider contacting a breast milk bank. Banks take milk from extensively pre-screened donors to help mothers struggling with nursing.
Nutrient Rich Formula
Doctors will often prescribe a very nutrient rich formula as a supplement to provide the extra calories needed by premature babies. Be sure to feed your premature baby whenever he appears hungry. Going without food for more than a short time could lead to complications like dehydration.
Another excellent way to help care for your premature child is to make sure he gets all his immunizations. Premature babies get vaccinations using the same schedule as full term babies. Pediatricians particularly recommend making sure that your child has a flu shot because premature babies often have undeveloped immune systems. A baby with an immune system that isn’t fully functional is at greater risk from infectious diseases. Vaccinations will help protect your child from illness and reduce his symptoms should he come in contact with germs.
Good Hygiene
Since premature babies have immune systems that may be easily overwhelmed it is a good idea to make sure that all visitors practice good hygiene. Make this easier by having water, soap and antiseptic wipes nearby whenever you take the baby out. You should also wash your own hands as frequently as possible. Don’t worry about asking people to adhere to such precautions. They will understand that you are only concerned with the health of your baby.
Mothers who already have other children can help their child prepare for a sibling’s arrival. Let your son or daughter participate in caring for the newborn. Many hospitals will let siblings hold and even rock a premature baby. They can create special cards to decorate the incubator or buy a special toy to greet the new arrival. Don’t forget to set aside some special time just for you and your other children. This will help reduce sibling rivalry and let your other children still feel beloved.
Caring for a premature baby can be an overwhelming experience. But with a little bit of help it can also be a very rewarding accomplishment.
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