Source: bing.comWhen a baby is born before the 37th week of pregnancy, it is considered premature. Premature babies are often smaller and have underdeveloped organs. They require specialized medical care to ensure that they develop and grow properly. In this article, we will discuss how a premature baby develops and what milestones they reach during their first year of life.
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Development in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU)
Many premature babies are placed in the NICU after birth. In the NICU, they are closely monitored and given specialized care. The goal is to help them grow and develop until they are strong enough to go home. Premature babies may need help breathing, eating, and maintaining their body temperature. They may also need medication to treat infections or other health issues.
While in the NICU, premature babies go through a series of developmental stages. They begin to gain weight and grow taller, and their organs start to mature. They also start to develop motor skills, such as holding their head up and grasping objects. The NICU staff works closely with parents to ensure that the baby is getting the best care possible.
Developmental milestones
Once a premature baby is discharged from the hospital, they continue to develop at their own pace. However, premature babies may reach developmental milestones later than full-term babies. Here are some milestones that premature babies may reach during their first year of life:
- One month: Babies may be able to lift their head briefly when lying on their stomach.
- Two months: Babies may be able to follow objects with their eyes and smile.
- Three months: Babies may be able to reach for and grasp objects.
- Six months: Babies may be able to sit up without support and say their first words.
- Nine months: Babies may be able to crawl and stand with support.
- Twelve months: Babies may be able to walk and say several words.
The importance of follow-up care
Premature babies may have a higher risk of health problems as they grow older. They may be more likely to develop asthma, vision problems, and learning disabilities. That’s why it’s important for premature babies to receive follow-up care from their healthcare provider. The healthcare provider can monitor their development and address any health issues that may arise.
Parents of premature babies should also be aware of their child’s development and communicate any concerns to their healthcare provider. They can help their child reach developmental milestones by providing a supportive and stimulating environment. This includes plenty of tummy time, reading to the baby, and providing age-appropriate toys and activities.
In conclusion
Premature babies require specialized medical care to ensure that they grow and develop properly. In the NICU, they go through a series of developmental stages and receive specialized care. Once they are discharged from the hospital, they continue to develop at their own pace. However, premature babies may reach developmental milestones later than full-term babies. Follow-up care is important to ensure that they stay healthy as they grow older.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can premature babies catch up in development?
A: Yes, premature babies can catch up in development. With the right care and support, premature babies can grow and develop just like full-term babies.
Q: What health problems are common in premature babies?
A: Premature babies may be at higher risk for health problems such as respiratory distress syndrome, jaundice, and infections. They may also have a higher risk of developing asthma, vision problems, and learning disabilities as they grow older.
Q: What can parents do to help their premature baby develop?
A: Parents can provide a supportive and stimulating environment for their premature baby. This includes plenty of tummy time, reading to the baby, and providing age-appropriate toys and activities. It’s also important to communicate any concerns to the healthcare provider and follow their recommendations for follow-up care.
Q: How long do premature babies stay in the hospital?
A: The length of time a premature baby stays in the hospital depends on their individual needs. Some premature babies may only need to stay in the hospital for a few weeks, while others may need to stay for several months.
Q: Is it safe to breastfeed a premature baby?
A: Yes, it is safe to breastfeed a premature baby. Breast milk provides important nutrients and antibodies that can help protect the baby from infections. However, some premature babies may need to receive breast milk through a feeding tube until they are strong enough to breastfeed on their own.