Understanding Near-Term Baby Needs
Welcoming a baby earlier than expected can come as a shock to many parents, especially when the arrival happens before the 37-week mark. Babies born between 34 and 36 weeks of pregnancy are known as late preterm infants, and their deliveries are more common than some may realize.
While the cause of early labor is often unknown, health experts stress that parents are not to blame for a baby arriving before the due date. Managing to keep a pregnancy going for just a few extra days can make a big difference for the baby’s health. Understanding what it means to have a late preterm infant, and knowing what to expect, can help families prepare for the journey ahead.
What Happens During Late Preterm Birth
Late preterm babies, born between 34 and 36 weeks, may look like full-term infants but face higher risks of certain health issues. Hospital staff closely monitor these newborns for breathing and feeding problems once they arrive. If a baby has trouble with their breathing or needs more support, the staff may move the baby to a special care area for extra observation.
Most late preterm babies who are stable can stay with their mothers and receive skin-to-skin contact, helping both bonding and temperature control. However, if the baby needs extra care, the staff might place the baby in the neonatal intensive care unit for careful monitoring and support.
Common Difficulties for Late Preterm Infants
Breathing Problems
Late preterm babies often have lungs that are not fully matured. This can make it hard for them to breathe easily on their own. Many may show signs of breathing distress soon after birth, such as fast breathing, grunting, or flaring of the nostrils. In some cases, they might need extra oxygen or help from machines that support their breathing. Hospital staff keep a close watch on these infants to make sure they get the support they need.
Trouble Keeping Warm
Keeping a steady body temperature can be a challenge for these infants. Their bodies have not had enough time to build up the fat needed to trap heat. Without these fat stores, late preterm infants can get cold more quickly than babies born at full term. Doctors and nurses often encourage lots of skin-to-skin contact with parents, which helps keep the baby warm and steady. Sometimes, special warmers or blankets also help control the baby’s temperature.
Yellowing of the Skin and Eyes (Jaundice)
Jaundice occurs more frequently in late preterm babies because their livers are not as mature. As their bodies break down red blood cells, they produce bilirubin, a substance that can build up and cause yellowing of the skin and eyes. Unlike full-term newborns, these babies might show signs of jaundice a bit later. Most infants can manage this condition with more frequent feeding to help clear out bilirubin. However, if bilirubin levels get too high, some may need special light therapy.
Feeding Difficulties and Low Blood Sugar
Some late preterm babies can seem healthy and alert but struggle to eat enough. Feeding issues might happen because these babies tire easily or cannot coordinate their sucking and swallowing well. Poor feeding can lower their blood sugar, leading to sleepiness, jitteriness, or other concerns.
Medical staff might suggest parents pump breast milk or use feeding tubes until the baby gains strength. Lactation support often helps with feeding, and staff monitor babies closely to ensure they are eating enough and gaining weight steadily.
Taking Your Newborn Home
Bringing a newborn home is a big moment for any family, especially for those with late preterm infants. These babies may need to reach about 36 weeks of development before leaving the hospital, since they often have special care needs. Parents should get ready by asking their baby’s healthcare provider important questions, such as how to monitor for jaundice, how to be sure their baby is eating enough, and the best way to dress their newborn for comfort.
Dressing a newborn depends on the environment. Thin layers usually work well, adding a hat or blanket if the home is cool. Avoid over-bundling since babies can overheat easily. In the first weeks, it is best to avoid large crowds, as young infants are more likely to get sick.
When questions or worries come up, parents can reach out to nurses or healthcare professionals for support.
Useful Items at Home for Near-Term Infants
A Durable, High-Powered Breast Milk Pump
Near-term babies sometimes tire quickly while feeding and may not latch as strongly as full-term newborns. A sturdy, efficient breast milk pump helps parents express milk when direct nursing is difficult. By combining breastfeeding and pumping, families support steady feeding and reduce stress for both the baby and caregiver. Double pumps or hospital-grade options can save time and collect more milk in one session.
Outfits with Easy-Open Magnetic Closures
When babies need medical attention or monitoring, clothing that opens swiftly and easily is a big help. Designers create magnetic closure outfits to allow fast changes and make it simple to dress babies connected to monitors or wires. These clothes let caregivers avoid struggling with snaps or zippers, making it easier to check or dress the infant without disturbing monitoring equipment.