What defines a premature baby?

A baby born before 37 weeks of pregnancy is considered premature. The earlier the birth, the more medical support they usually need.

How long do premature babies stay in the NICU?

It varies. Some stay for a few days, while very preterm babies may need several weeks until they can breathe, feed, and maintain body temperature independently.

Can premature babies breastfeed?

Yes, premature babies can breastfeed. At the same time, some may start with tube feeding, with patience and lactation support, most transition to breastfeeding successfully. It's a journey that can be a significant challenge but also a rewarding experience for both the baby and the mother.

Caring for a Premature Baby: What Parents Should Know in the First Few Weeks

An early baby is one born before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Depending on how early the birth occurs, babies may be classified as:

Late preterm: 34–36 weeks
Moderately preterm: 32–34 weeks
Very preterm: Before 32 weeks
Extremely preterm: Before 28 weeks

The earlier a baby is born, the more care and monitoring they need in the first few weeks. But with advances in neonatal medicine, most premature babies today grow up healthy and strong, often catching up with their peers in growth and development. This resilience is a source of hope and optimism for parents, reassuring them that their baby can thrive despite the initial challenges.

Why Premature Babies Need Special Care

Babies that are born prematurely, before their bodies and organs are fully developed. They may have:

Low birth weight.
Difficulty maintaining body temperature.
Immature lungs or breathing difficulties.
Feeding challenges due to an underdeveloped sucking reflex.
Increased risk of infection.

Specialised medical attention ensures they adapt safely to life outside the womb.

The Role of the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit)

Immediately after birth, most premature babies are admitted to a NICU — a specialised care unit designed to support premature or medically fragile infants. Here, doctors and nurses monitor:

Breathing and heart rate.
Body temperature.
Feeding and digestion.
Weight gain and development.

While the NICU care focuses on helping the baby stabilise before transitioning home, it's important to note that parents play a crucial and empowering role. Their regular visits, touch, and conversation with the baby promote early bonding and support the baby's emotional and neurological development. This involvement makes parents feel integral to their baby's care, fostering a sense of confidence and connection.

Feeding a Premature Baby

Feeding is one of the biggest challenges — and triumphs — in premature baby care. Because their digestive systems are still developing, preterm babies often start with tube feeding or expressed breast milk before moving to direct breastfeeding or bottle feeding.

Breast milk is essential for preemies because it:

Strengthens immunity.
Reduces infection risk.
Promotes brain and gut development.
It is easier to digest than formula.

If breastfeeding directly isn’t possible initially, mothers can pump and store milk for NICU feeding. As the baby grows, feeding transitions gradually to direct breastfeeding or bottle feeding under medical guidance.

Keeping Your Baby Warm and Comfortable

Premature babies have very little body fat and may struggle to maintain body temperature. Tips for warmth and comfort:

Dress your baby in soft, breathable cotton layers.
Keep the room temperature stable (around 26–28°C).
Avoid exposure to drafts or direct air conditioning.
Practice kangaroo mother care — skin-to-skin contact helps regulate temperature and heart rate, and supports bonding.

Kangaroo care, where the baby is held skin-to-skin with the parent, is now widely recommended in India and has proven benefits for both premature babies and mothers. It helps regulate the baby's temperature and heart rate, promotes bonding, and can even improve breastfeeding success. It's a simple but powerful way for parents to be involved in their baby's care.

Monitoring Growth and Development

Their corrected age tracks growth in premature babies, calculated from their due date rather than their birth date. It means milestones like smiling, crawling, or walking may come a little later, but that’s perfectly normal. Your paediatrician will regularly measure:

Weight, length, and head circumference.
Feeding habits and sleep patterns.
Reflexes, motor skills, and early responses.

Immunity and Infection Prevention

Premature babies have developing immune systems and need extra protection from infections. Care guidelines:

Wash your hands thoroughly before handling your baby.
Limit visitors, especially during flu season.
Ensure vaccinations are up to date (including those for caregivers).
Keep the baby’s environment clean, but avoid harsh disinfectants or fragrances.

If your baby shows signs such as fever, difficulty breathing, or lethargy, or if they are not feeding well or have a change in skin colour, seek medical help immediately. These could be signs of infection or other health issues that need immediate attention.

Emotional Health and Parental Support

Caring for a premature baby can be emotionally intense. Many parents experience fear, anxiety, or even guilt, which is entirely natural. Remember: You are not alone. Seek support from:

Hospital counsellors or lactation specialists.
Parent support groups (many hospitals in India offer NICU parent circles).
Family and friends who can help with rest and daily routines.

Taking care of your mental well-being helps you care better for the baby.

What to Expect When Bringing Your Baby Home

Once your baby can breathe independently, maintain temperature, and gain weight steadily, doctors will discharge them from the NICU. Before going home, learn:

How to feed and burp your baby.
How to monitor breathing or temperature changes.
When to schedule follow-up visits.
Safe sleeping positions — always place your baby on their back.
Keep your home environment calm, warm, and smoke-free.

Long-Term Care and Milestone Tracking

Even after discharge, premature babies need regular paediatric check-ups to track growth, eye and hearing development, and immunisations. Some may require physiotherapy or speech therapy in later months, especially if born very early. Early intervention ensures healthy growth and reduces long-term risks. Your paediatrician will guide you on the specific care your baby needs.

Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.

FAQs on Caring for a Premature Baby: What Parents Should Know in the First Few Weeks

What defines a premature baby?
A baby born before 37 weeks of pregnancy is considered premature. The earlier the birth, the more medical support they usually need.
How long do premature babies stay in the NICU?
It varies. Some stay for a few days, while very preterm babies may need several weeks until they can breathe, feed, and maintain body temperature independently.
Can premature babies breastfeed?
Yes, premature babies can breastfeed. At the same time, some may start with tube feeding, with patience and lactation support, most transition to breastfeeding successfully. It's a journey that can be a significant challenge but also a rewarding experience for both the baby and the mother.