This is a personal perspective from a real
Dad...."Congratulations, you have a new baby. I hope these tips
will help you get through the period whilst your baby is in
hospital."
- Get to know your baby. He belongs to you not the hospital!
Spend as much time with him as you can. Talk to him and hold him or
get skin to skin contact if you can
- Buy something for your baby. I bought a teddy that was the same
tiny size as my baby. It helps you remember how small he really was
to see how far he has progressed later on. He is very proud of that
teddy now!
- Look after Mum. She may feel like a failure. Make her feel
loved and cancel work if you can.
- Protect Mum and baby from too many visitors.
- Follow your instincts. If you wake up at night and want to see
your baby then go and see him.
- If you do not understand something about your baby or his care
do not be afraid to ask.
- Look after yourself. Make time to eat and sleep properly. Don't
smoke and remember to drink plenty of water. Neonatal units can be
very dehydrating.
- Clean the house ready for when Mum comes home.
- Take lots of pictures. Our boy is obsessed with his baby photos
even though it has to be said they are not all pretty!
- Keep a diary.
- Get counselling if you need to.
- Get to know the hospital well. Find the cafes, restaurant,
shops (and their opening times), best place to park, bus
routes.
- Use this website. It has lots of very useful information. Tell
your relatives and friends about it as it will help them understand
what you are going through and save you answering all their
questions.