Page 17 - What to Expect

Arrival in the NICU

Fretting over what may have been will not bring back the pregnancy, it will
only make you unhappy.

Talking about your worries with your partner, a friend, midwife, social
worker, GP, nurse or someone from The Neonatal Trust (a parent support
group) can help you put the birth and having a baby in the Unit into
perspective. It is often the most insignificant things that will worry you -
these are best talked about openly.

Your jumble of thoughts, moods and reactions are perfectly normal to
most parents who have babies in the Unit. After your baby has been in the
Unit a while you may realise that all the other families who have a baby in
the Unit share similar emotions. You are not alone.

How can I look after myself postnatal?

If you are recovering from a caesarean remember to follow the
recommendations from the doctors, midwives and physiotherapists and
you should be fit and well when baby comes home. If you had a general
anaesthetic when you had your caesarean you may feel quite tired for
several weeks after the operation. A rest in the day is often a necessary
step to ensure a total and rapid recovery. It is important that you make and
keep your six week postnatal visit with your doctor. You may want to use
this time to talk about the birth.

How can my partner and support people help?

Having a baby in the Unit can be very stressful on a relationship and family.
This is particularly the case if your partner has spent days, weeks or even
months in the antenatal ward before delivering.

If the baby’s mother had a rather traumatic birth experience and is unable
to visit your baby, then you, as the baby’s other parent, will be the one
to spend time with your baby and keep your partner up-to-date with
progress.

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