A New Beginning

Late-Preterm Babies

Getting to Know Your Baby

Babies born 3 to 6 weeks prematurely are called late-preterm babies. They may look full term, but they will need some extra attention, including having their temperature and vital signs taken more often. Your baby may still be able to room-in with you.

Late-preterm babies get cold easily and use much of their energy just trying to stay warm. This is because your baby did not have time to develop enough body fat to stay warm. Dress your baby in one more layer than you’re wearing. Do not overdress them or let them get overheated. Skin-to-skin contact can really help get their temperature up. So keep your baby skin-to-skin with a blanket over their back as often as you can.

Temperature

Late-preterm babies are at a higher risk of having breathing problems. Their lungs may not be entirely developed, so they have to work hard at breathing. They may develop infections more easily because late-preterm babies have immature immune systems.

Breathing and Infection

Late-preterm babies are at higher risk of jaundice. If your baby is not eating well, they are at an even greater risk. Your baby will be screened for jaundice before leaving the hospital. After discharge, your babies health care provider usually examines them 1 to 2 days later. All babies need to be fed at least 8 or more times in 24 hours. Feed your baby when they show feeding cues and at least every 3 hours. Some late-preterm babies feed well, while others do not. Your baby may not wake up for feedings or give you feeding cues. You may have to wake them for feedings. Your baby may also get sleepy during feedings and fall asleep before getting enough milk. To keep them awake, rub their back and the bottoms of their feet. You will need to listen for swallowing sounds and keep track of their wet and dirty diapers. Your baby might not have a strong suck, which also makes it hard for them to get enough milk. Try gently massaging your breast while feeding — this helps your milk flow and makes it easier for your baby to get the milk they need. You can use massage with each feeding. However, you still may need to pump after each feeding to keep up a good milk supply. Work with a lactation specialist to come up with a feeding plan that is best for you and your baby.

Jaundice

Feeding

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Chapter 7: Getting to Know Your Baby