Due to these problems, the baby's care must be given in a neonatal ICU equipped for all eventualities. Extremely premature babies can weigh only about 400 grams. Their skin can still be transparent and give the baby a dark appearance. Some babies are so premature that they do not even have nails or eyebrows yet and need help to keep warm, since their bodies do not yet have this ability due to prematurity. The smaller the baby, the more delicate their health and the lower their chances of survival. That is why being surrounded by doctors specialized in premature babies is crucial.

The longer the baby stays in the mother's womb, the better the conditions in which they will be born. A baby born at 35 weeks of pregnancy will certainly fare better than one at 30 weeks. However, it all depends on the birth weight or if there is any other aggravating risk. Not every premature baby needs months of hospitalization. Some are born healthy and can go straight to the room with their mother. Some are born at 34 or 35 weeks in excellent health, breathing on their own, and even have a strong cry. Depending on the medical assessment, they may not even go to the ICU or semi-ICU and instead go to the room without any problems.

Other babies at 36 weeks would theoretically be ready, but through a non-spontaneous birth—when labor is scheduled and the doctor makes a miscalculation—may provide a newborn who is almost full-term but is still considered premature. If their lungs are not yet mature, whether naturally or with medication, additional care such as oxygen support and monitoring for a few hours or days will be required.

The follow-up care for these premature babies is relatively simple, but necessary. The myth that a baby born prematurely will have problems for life has been increasingly disproven. Children born even extremely premature can have a completely normal life. Only certain precautions need to be taken with possible respiratory problems that may arise due to the immaturity of the lungs at birth.

The ICUs at most maternity wards allow mothers to stay close to their children. Whenever possible, they also encourage kangaroo care. This technique involves holding the baby on the mothers chest, kept warm with appropriate cloths (even while on medical devices), and allows the newborn to feel the mothers body warmth, hear her heartbeat, feel secure, and be reminded of the womb. Scientifically proven, this technique helps improve the preterm baby's condition.

Care for a premature baby at home depends on each specific case. However, when they are discharged from the hospital, they will be in full health. Premature babies should follow the same vaccination schedule and be immunized against various diseases. It is up to the parents to care for and cherish this new life with love and affection.

Photos: Jim Lynch, SoCal Photo Design