When you’re expecting a baby, there’s a lot of excitement and hope for the future. But sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Some families find out during pregnancy that there might be a problem with the baby, while others are surprised after the baby is born. Either way, it can be a really stressful and scary time.
If there’s a complication during pregnancy, you may have some time to prepare for what might happen after the baby is born. But if you find out at birth or soon after, it can be even more overwhelming because it’s unexpected.
While your baby is in the NICU, take the time to get ready for when they come home. You’ll probably get connected with community resources that can help with things like feeding, physical therapy, and medical equipment. There are lots of different agencies out there to help, so don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek out more help if you need it. WIC is a great place to start.
When your baby finally comes home, it’s okay to set boundaries and rules for your home. Your baby might need a lot of care, with many doctor’s appointments, therapies, and maybe even surgeries. It’s a lot to handle, so don’t be afraid to ask for help from family and friends. They can help with chores, taking care of older siblings, cooking meals, or just giving you a break.
You might find yourself doing a lot of internet searches about your baby’s health needs. That’s normal, but make sure you’re looking at reliable websites (those ending in ‘.gov’ or ‘.edu’ are generally good sources). It’s also okay to feel a lot of different emotions during this time – like being overwhelmed, sad, or even guilty. Talk to professionals and get help if you need it. You don’t have to go through this alone.
Even though things might not be how you imagined, remember to enjoy your baby and celebrate their accomplishments.
Every child is special and has the potential to thrive, even if they have medical needs or disabilities. You are your baby’s biggest advocate, and you can help them reach their full potential.