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What to expect if your baby needs care on a neonatal unit

Why do babies need special care (neonatal care)?

Babies may need specialist care if they are born before 37-weeks (born preterm or prematurely) or born at 40-weeks but are unwell. They may need help with:

  • Breathing
  • Feeding
  • Keeping warm
  • A medical condition that needs treatment. 
What is it like on a neonatal unit?

It can feel scary if your baby needs special care. But the doctors and nurses are there to help you and your baby. You can still do lots of things to care for your baby, like:

  • Cuddling (skin-to-skin)
  • Talking and singing to them
  • Changing nappies
  • Giving feeds (link to feeding and expressing)
  • Taking their temperature
  • Being part of the care team.

You are an important part of your baby’s journey.

Find out more about what it is like when your baby needs special care in these animations and videos made by parents and staff.

Video 1 of 2

Support for you and your family if your baby needs special care

Emotional support

It’s ok to experience a range of emotions. There is no ‘right’ way to feel. You might not feel an immediate attachment to your baby, you might feel overwhelmed, sad, angry, guilty, like no-one understands, scared, numb, protective, proud or happy at times.

If you feel like you need help then please seek out support by talking to your partner,
a family member, a friend, a nurse, your health visitor, or your GP. Some units have a Psychology service too. You can also access the Canopie app Download the app – Canopie which is made for neonatal families.

There is support out there for you. You are not alone.

‘Hey it’s ok’ link

Support for Siblings pack and video (pic from Karen PAG family)
Financial support

When your baby is on a neonatal unit in South Yorkshire you will get:

  • Free meals
  • Free parking

There are other ways you can get help with money too. Find out more on the Bliss website, here.