Planned and unplanned premature birth
It can be really worrying and distressing if you have a premature birth and it is natural to feel a whole array of emotions. Your midwife and the hospital team will provide you with lots of help and support. They will also be able to talk to you about all next steps.The NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) is where your baby might go once they are born if they need intensive, specialist care. This may also be called the HDU - High Dependency Unit. If your baby doesn’t need intensive care, they might go to the SCBU (Special Care Baby Unit). This is a lower dependency ward for premature babies. Depending on how well you and your baby are, the hospital may also recommend you can both go home, with regular support from your community midwife.
Planned premature birth
If you know in advance that your baby may need to be delivered before 37 weeks, you can still plan for the birth as you would a full-term baby. You will still need to pack a hospital bag with items for yourself and your baby. Many supermarkets now sell premature baby supplies such as nappies, formula and clothes. You can still discuss your birth choices with your midwife. You can read more about planned premature birth options from the Tommy website.
It might help to look around the ward, to help you feel a little more prepared for what’s ahead. Jot down any questions you want to ask your midwife. Consider stocking up or batch cooking some meals, plan childcare for older siblings, and enlist the support of family and friends if you can.
Unplanned birth
Premature births can be unplanned too. You may go into labour earlier than expected, or your baby may need to be delivered early if either of you become unwell. In most cases, your premature baby will be delivered via emergency caesarean section. Your doctor or midwife will still discuss your birth options with you. The hospital is prepared for premature babies, so it’s ok if you don’t have your hospital bag and belongings with you.