A friend of mine has just been told her baby is coming next week. It’s her first baby and bub is only tiny and will be in the NICU for however long.
What does she need to pack for baby? Does the hospital supply tiny nappies? Feeding?
Thank you 😊
NICU Baby
NICU Baby
Posted in:
Pregnancy, Baby & Toddler
2 Replies
Some will depend on hospital and how tiny baby actually is and how much support and equipment bubs will need to be attached to. Your friend is best to talk to her hospital to get the details.
But the hospital won’t allow the baby to go hungry or not have a nappy because mum didn’t pack it. The NICu is well use lad to supporting babies and parents who have nothing because they have come in a rush and unexpectedly.
Honestly, the only thing mum really needs while bub is in NICU is for mum to buy or hire a high quality double breast pump to help bring her milk in. Mum and dad will need a lot of support though. Cooked meals they can microwave for dinners. Money for parking or a 1 month parking pass that can be increased depending on how bub goes. An ear. Hugs. If bubs is past 28 weeks, generally speaking they do quite well unless there are other complications. Mum and dad also need to know that it's OK not to go in on a particular day if they just need to focus on themselves so they can get through the next day. And finally, they need someone who doesn't give constant pep talks. Let them voice how much it sucks and don't dismiss that by saying 'you're so strong, bubs a fighter' blah blah everytime. Sometimes, they need someone to say it does suck. You don't deserve this. Baby x doesn't deserve this. Supporting a person with a baby in NICU, especially if it's for months, is really hard. I've been there. My bestie got angry at the whole world except me. Because I was honest and said I don't know what to say or what to do...and I'll probably get it wrong on some days. Just know I'm trying, I love you and if you do have something you need, I'm all ears. Good luck.