Like many expectant parents, you may have worried about your baby's health during your pregnancy. Now that your baby actually requires special medical care, it is an understandably difficult emotional experience for you. Despite the helplessness you may feel at times, there are many caring, nurturing things you can do for your baby.

One of the most important ways you can participate in your baby's care is by communicating with your baby through touch. Research indicates that babies respond to pleasing touch. These soothing caresses help calm, quiet and relax babies.

Even if your baby cannot be held as yet, he or she will recognize your voice and your touch. Your baby's nurse will help you to find the most beneficial way to interact with your baby and to guide you to understand the most therapeutic time to touch and interact with your newborn. You may initially feel intimidated to hold and caress your baby. Your baby may easily startle or jump when first touched. This reaction is normal; don't be alarmed or discouraged.

Some other ways you can participate in your baby's care include making a tape of your voice or that of the baby's sibling reading a story. You may bring a photograph of the baby's siblings to place in the baby's crib. You may also find it helpful to attend classes or the NICU Parent Group meetings.

The occupational therapist (OT) is also available to meet with you on an individual basis. The OT will provide information about infant positioning, tips on feeding and the best ways to communicate with your premature baby, both in the NICU and when you go home.

As you become actively involved in your baby's care, you will build confidence in your ability to care for your baby.

We encourage you to parent your baby as often as you can. This may be especially difficult for mothers who are still recovering themselves or who have other children at home. For your convenience, Parent Rooms are located just outside the NICU for resting, expressing breast milk, or just quiet time.

As your participation in your baby's care increases, remember, your pediatrician or family physician and the NICU staff are available to respond to any questions or concerns you may have regarding your infant.

Your love and attention are of great value in this team effort.

© 2008 St. John's Mercy Health Care
615 S. New Ballas Rd., St. Louis, Missouri, 63141