Monitoring Your Baby's Health: a Post-NICU Guide
Bringing your baby home after a stay in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is a momentous occasion, often filled with joy and relief. However, it's normal to feel a mixture of emotions, including anxiety and uncertainty about your baby's health outside the controlled environment of the NICU.
First things first: Believe in yourself. You and your baby are ready for this next step on your journey—after all, your medical team wouldn’t be sending you home if you weren’t. And NICU Alumni is here to support you on your way, too, starting with this guide to monitoring your baby's health, recognizing warning signs and symptoms, and what to do if you suspect something may be wrong.
Common Health Concerns for NICU Grads
Your baby is healthy enough to go home with you, and that’s cause for celebration! But there are a few health issues you should be on the lookout for, because they tend to occur more often in NICU grads:
1. Respiratory Health
Respiratory issues are common among NICU graduates, especially if they were born prematurely or had respiratory distress syndrome, a condition in which the lungs are not fully developed. To avoid respiratory health challenges, ensure your home environment is conducive to healthy breathing. Keep your baby's room well-ventilated and free from irritants like strong scents, or allergens. Avoid exposing your baby to secondhand smoke, as it can exacerbate respiratory issues.
Warning signs:
rapid or shallow breathing
wheezing
grunting noises
using their abdominal muscles excessively while breathing.
If you notice any of these signs, consult your pediatrician immediately.
2. Feeding Difficulties
Feeding can be a challenge for NICU graduates, especially if they were born prematurely or had gastrointestinal issues. Your doctor may encourage you to track your baby's feeding cues and monitor how much and how often they’re eating. It’s normal for NICU grads to need a little time before developing a regular feeding routine, so just keep tracking their progress and practice patience. In some cases, however, you may need the help of a medical professional to keep your baby healthy and thriving.
Signs of feeding difficulties include:
prolonged feeding times
persistent fussiness during feeds
inadequate weight gain
If you notice any of the above signs, contact your doctor, who can offer guidance on specialized feeding techniques or may recommend working with a lactation consultant or pediatric feeding specialist.
3. Developmental Delays
Premature birth or complications during pregnancy or childbirth can sometimes lead to developmental delays in NICU graduates. Every baby develops at their own pace, so missing a milestone may not mean anything—but it could also be an important signifier that your baby needs extra support in their physical or mental development.
Keep track of age-appropriate milestones, such as:
head control
rolling over
sitting up
reaching for objects
If you notice any significant delays or regression in your baby's development, discuss your concerns with your pediatrician. Early intervention services, such as physical or occupational therapy, can make a significant difference in your baby's progress.
Scheduling Regular Pediatric Check-ups
Frequent check-ups with your pediatrician are crucial for monitoring your baby's overall health and development. These visits provide an opportunity for your pediatrician to assess your baby's growth, address any concerns, and ensure they're receiving appropriate care.
During these appointments, be open and honest about any observations or questions you have regarding your baby's health. Remember: Your pediatrician is there to support you and provide guidance. Get more tips on managing your child’s medical care.
Above All, Trust Your Instincts
As a parent, you know your baby best. If you have a gut feeling that something isn't quite right, trust your instincts. Don't hesitate to seek medical attention, and get a second opinion if you think it's warranted. Even if it turns out to be a false alarm, it's better to be cautious and seek professional advice than to ignore potential warning signs.