On The Father’s Side: What To Expect When Having A Preemie
Becoming a father is a life-changing experience filled with joy, anticipation, and love. But when your child arrives prematurely, the journey takes a different path. Preemie parenthood brings unique challenges and emotions, often uncharted territory for new dads.
Since they arrive prematurely, many preemies have problems when they are born — for example, many preemies have ROP or Retinopathy of Prematurity. ROP appears in premature babies exposed to oxygenation therapies due to respiratory conditions. If left untreated, ROP can lead to complete blindness in one or both eyes.
Although many children recover from ROP and other conditions that come with prematurity, it certainly doesn’t help ease the burden for fathers, especially first-timers. As such, be strong and look for sources like this — here, we'll explore what it's like to be a father to a preemie and share what to expect along the way.
The Unplanned Arrival
The birth of a premature baby is often unexpected. One moment, you're preparing for the arrival of your child, and the next, you find yourself in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The initial shock can be overwhelming.
As a father, you may feel helpless, anxious, and uncertain about what lies ahead. To navigate this uncharted territory, it's crucial to lean on your support system, including your partner, family, and medical professionals.
A preemie can certainly have different needs than a baby with an average weight for their gestational age (AGA). As a dad, you might find difficulty in finding the smallest nappies, the smallest car seats, clothes, and everything else in preemie size.
Thankfully, companies such as Maxi Cosi understand the need for a wide selection of product sizes. Continue to dig for the right stuff that’ll suit your preemie despite their early arrival.
The NICU Experience
The NICU becomes a second home for many parents of preemies. It's filled with beeping machines, vigilant nurses, and tiny fighters in incubators. As a father, your role is crucial in providing emotional support for your child and your partner.
Spend time with your baby, engage in skin-to-skin contact, and be present during medical rounds. And yes, you read it right; fathers can engage in skin-to-skin contact if the mother is still recovering or isn’t present.
Emotional Rollercoaster
The emotional toll of having a preemie is significant. You may experience a whirlwind of emotions, from fear and guilt to hope and pride. Feeling a sense of loss for the "typical" birth experience you envisioned is normal.
As a father, you may also grapple with feelings of powerlessness as you watch your child fight for survival. Seek support groups or counselling services to help you cope with these emotions and connect with other dads who have gone through similar experiences.
Parenting from Afar
Preemie dads often find themselves balancing the demands of work, home, and the NICU. It can be challenging to split your time between supporting your partner and being present in the NICU.
Communicate openly with your partner about your feelings and find ways to share responsibilities. Lean on family and friends for support, and consider taking time off work if possible to spend more time with your preemie and partner.
Celebrating Milestones
Every milestone achieved by your preemie is a cause for celebration. Whether it's the first time your child breathes on their own or the day they come home from the hospital, these moments are victories in the preemie journey. As a father, it's essential to cherish these milestones and acknowledge the incredible strength and resilience of your child.
Preparing for the Future
The journey of preemie parenthood doesn't end when you leave the NICU. Many preemies face long-term health challenges, and it's crucial to stay informed and advocate for your child's well-being. As a father, you can play an active role in researching and understanding your child's unique needs and seeking out appropriate therapies or interventions.
Building Resilience
Being a father to a preemie teaches you resilience like no other experience. You'll discover strengths within yourself that you never knew existed. Your challenges will shape you into a more empathetic, patient, and compassionate parent. Your preemie will inspire you every day with their determination and courage.
Conclusion
Becoming a father to a preemie is a journey filled with uncertainties but also filled with love, hope, and growth. While the path may differ from what you initially expected, the bond you'll develop with your preemie is just as profound.
Remember that you're not alone on this journey, and a community of preemie parents have walked this path before you. Embrace each day, celebrate every milestone, and cherish the incredible strength of your preemie. As a father, your love and support are invaluable in helping your child thrive.