Nurture the bond with your baby through kangaroo care and learn how the skin-to-skin connection supports well-being and growth.
What is the NICU?
NICU stands for neonatal intensive care unit and is a specialized hospital unit that provides around-the-clock neonatal care for premature or ill newborns. In the NICU, infants receive specialized medical attention, monitoring, and support tailored to their individual needs in an environment equipped to handle critical situations.
The neonatology program at Children’s Minnesota provides clinical expertise and compassionate care for thousands of newborns each year. Plus, The Mother Baby Center conveniently connects to the Children’s Minnesota neonatal intensive care and special care nurseries.
Seven reasons for NICU baby care
A wide range of reasons may require your baby to be admitted to the NICU. They may have been born prematurely, have breathing problems, or developed an infection. Keep reading to learn about some of the reasons a baby is in the NICU.
Prematurity
Prematurity occurs when a baby is born before 37 weeks of gestation. The severity varies, and preterm infants may need to stay in the NICU for weeks to months to receive essential care and support for their development.
Low birth weight
Infants born with low birth weight, typically less than 5.5 pounds, may face challenges in maintaining body temperature, feeding and growing. Doctors determine their stay in the neonatal unit based on their growth and developmental progress.
Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS)
Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) is a breathing problem that affects newborns, mostly those who are born more than six weeks early. Babies born earlier or more premature are more likely to develop RDS.
Many babies with milder symptoms get better in 3-4 days. NICU babies who are very premature will take longer to recover.
Sepsis or infection
Newborn infants can develop infections, such as sepsis, which require immediate medical intervention. The severity of the infection determines the length of the stay for the newborn in the hospital.
Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia is when newborns have low blood sugar levels. It can lead to complications if not managed promptly. Babies with hypoglycemia may require monitoring and treatment in the NICU until their blood sugar stabilizes.
Perinatal depression
For a birthing person experiencing perinatal depression, the NICU journey may be emotionally challenging. Support and understanding are crucial for the well-being of both the mother and the baby during their NICU stay.
Learn more about what to expect during the postpartum recovery period.
Maternal chorioamnionitis
Maternal chorioamnionitis is an infection of the fetal membranes during pregnancy. Infants born to mothers with this condition may need specialized care in the NICU depending on the severity of the infection.