This Prematurity Awareness Month we caught up with Kate Marsh, one of Tommy’s expert Midwives, for her advice for parents of pre-term babies. These were her top 5 tips:
‘Hold and touch your baby, if you can.
Have some skin-to-skin time. It really helps with stabilising their temperature, their breathing rate and their heart rate. It also helps their growth and development. It’s lovely bonding time too.’
‘Get involved in their daily care.
If possible, get involved with their care routine, such as changing their nappy and washing their mouth. This can really help build your confidence as a parent, while giving valuable bonding time with your baby.’
'Talk and sing to your baby!
It doesn’t matter what it is – read a book or simply tell them about your day. It’s really comforting for them to hear your voice. It will also give some bonding time between you.’
'Feed your baby.
Whether it’s breastfeeding, bottle feeding or tube feeding, formula or breast milk. This is a really important time for both you and your baby and it helps with their development.’
'Prioritise your own mental health.
Look after yourself and use the support around you.’
For more information and support around pre-term birth visit Tommys.org.
Half of adults in the UK have experienced baby loss or know someone who has. We're committed to working with Tommy's whose research is here to change this, providing hope and support for every pregnancy journey.
Half of adults in the UK have experienced baby loss or know someone who has. We're committed to working with Tommy's whose research is here to change this, providing hope and support for every pregnancy journey.
