For Families Ways to prepare for my baby’s arrival
Our community of parents have shared their top tips for preparing for the arrival of your premature or sick baby
Not too sure how to set this one up? – ps I know pics are on wrong side so will amend when format is decided
1. Read LLTF’s guidebook for parents in NICU and SCN
Written by those who have had a premature or sick baby in conjunction with health professionals, our guidebooks contain what you need to know for the journey ahead.
Download Here
2. Take a tour of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Special Care Nursery (SCN)
The NICU is an area that specialises solely in the treatment of newborns. Babies graduate from the NICU to the SCN once they are more stable. Some babies do not need the intensive level of care that the NICU provides, but go straight to the SCN, where the nurse-to-patient ratio is often 1:3 or 1:4.
Getting to know the NICU and SCN environments can be confronting but taking a tour will help you feel prepared and know what to expect when your baby arrives and stays in a neonatal unit. Talk to a health professional at your hospital to arrange a tour.
Learn more
3. Visit the LLTF Knowledge Exchange and hear from families we’ve supported Families from our community share tips and advice to help you on your journey.
Visit our Knowledge Exchange4. Learn about bonding with your baby
Familiarise yourself with the different ways you can bond with your baby while they are in hospital including kangaroo cuddles, bathing, feeding and reading.
Learn more
5. Keep your mind busy
Try keeping your mind busy with activities like puzzles, crosswords, knitting, drawing, or journal writing. For some, this serves as a welcome distraction while others can find it difficult to focus. If you find you’re the latter, go easy on yourself.
If possible, purchase earphones/earbuds with noise cancelling capabilities
These can come in particularly handy if you find yourself sharing a room with others.as overhearing your roommate’s trauma can be very upsetting and even triggering. Listening to music and podcasts is also a way of keeping the mind active.
Check out our recommended podcasts
7. Try to eat well and rest
We know it can be difficult to eat well and get good quality rest while in hospital so try to prioritise self-care while at home. Check out our specially developed mindfulness tracks for parents with a baby in NICU or SCN.
Listen to our Mindfulness tracks
8. Don’t be tempted to bottle up your feelings so everyone thinks you are OK
This goes for both parents. Lean on friends and family and tell them how you are really feeling so they can support you in the lead up to your baby’s birth and beyond.
9. If you are not feeling heard by your health care professional, keep trying
Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself and your baby. Also, if you don’t understand what is happening or are confused by some medical terminology, don’t be afraid to speak up and ask questions.
10. Call us for a chat
Speak to our team members who have the lived experience and support people going through a situation similar to yours.
Contact us
11. Try to create a calm, positive and comfortable environment
When you’re on bed rest and awaiting the arrival of your little treasure, it’s important that you create an environment that is peaceful and comforting. This might involve surrounding yourself with familiar items and things which bring you joy.
“When I started on bed rest at home, I got some new sheets and nice PJ’s/robe (some gifts from friends). In hospital I took in my own pillow with a beautiful bright pillowcase. I also had some nice moisturiser hand cream close by. Photos of my other son, his drawings and some of the mindfulness colouring pieces I had completed.” Jen, Mum to Santino born at 31 weeks
Embracing Bedrest During Pregnancy
Click through to Jaymee’s Story
Waiting for Riley
Click through to Kate’s Story
Jennifer and baby Santino
Click through to Jen’s Story[Note to DN: These stories to come from story library Three women share their experiences and thoughts about being on bedrest for a long period. (Story box but with a photo at the top…)
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Advice
Tips and support from those who have been there