Small but mighty, micro preemies enter the world long before they are ready. These tiny warriors face incredible challenges from their very first breath.

But what is a Micro Preemie?

Micro preemies are babies born before the 28th week of pregnancy or weigh less than 28 ounces - just 1.75 lbs!

Being in such an early stage of development, micro preemies face significant challenges. Their body just isn't ready for breathing, regulating body temperature, and fighting infections. That's why any micro preemie born needs the specialized care of the NICU unit. The NICU's advanced medical care is the best chance a micro preemie has for growing and thriving.

With that in mind, let's look at what it is like to be a micro preemie!

What Sets Micro Preemies Apart? 

Newborns are classified based on their time in the womb. While hospitals may have different guidelines, the general guidelines are: 

- Late Preterm: Born between 34 to 36 weeks 

- Moderately Preterm: Born between 32 to 34 weeks 

- Very Preterm: Born between 28 to 32 weeks 

- Extremely Preterm (Micro Preemies): Born before 28 weeks 

The Unique Needs of Micro Preemies in the NICU 

All micro preemies require specialized care. Being so early, they essentially need the same environment as the womb to grow and develop. In the NICU, the nursing team attempt to recreate the womb conditions.

Here are some specific needs the NICU team provides: 

1. Breathing Assistance: Micro preemies usually require ventilators to help them breathe until their lungs develop.

2. Nutritional Support: Micro preemies receive nutrients through an intravenous line (IV) until they reach 34-35 weeks old. At that point, they can transition to bottle or breast-feeding.

3. Heart Monitoring: These infants are at a higher risk for heart murmurs so the NICU team monitors their heart health 24/7.

The NICU Experience: Bonding with Your Micro Preemie 

Being in the NICU can be an emotional rollercoaster for parents. Initially, you may not be able to hold your micro preemie, but you can still provide comfort by speaking or singing to them. As they grow stronger, you’ll be able to engage in skin-to-skin contact, known as kangaroo care, which fosters bonding and nurtures your baby. 

Once they are ready, you may even begin practicing diaper changes, all while showering them with love and affection!

Transitioning from the NICU to Home 

The day your micro-preemie is ready to leave the NICU is a momentous occasion. However, the journey doesn’t end there. Parents often take home medical equipment to support their baby’s continued development. This process may involve: 

- Keeping the baby on oxygen 

- Administering medications 

- Scheduling regular visits with specialists 

While this seems like a lot, the NICU team always provides mom and dad training to ensure parents are well-prepared!

Preparing for Life at Home 

Bringing your micro preemie home is a joyful milestone, but it requires preparation. Here are some steps to consider: 

- Take a Course: Learn about premature infant care, including CPR and the use of monitoring equipment. 

- Schedule Checkups: Regular appointments with your pediatrician are vital for your baby’s health. 

- Understand Nutrition: Discuss feeding strategies with your healthcare provider or a nutritionist. 

- Implement Precautions: Newborns, particularly preemies, have weakened immune systems. While friends and family may be eager to meet your newborn, always check with your baby's doctor first.

- Practice Patience and Compassion: Supporting micro preemies is challenging even at home. Remember to be gentle on yourself and the challenges ahead. You will do great!

The Path Ahead 

While micro preemies share the long-term health risks of other preemies, their future will be more challenging. They face an increased likelihood of chronic asthma, cerebral palsy, and learning difficulties. However, with the right support and care, many micro preemies go on to develop as if they were never born early. 

The journey of a micro preemie is one of resilience and hope. While the NICU experience can be daunting, the love and care provided by parents and support of the NICU medical team can create the foundation for a bright future. 

As you embark on this beautiful journey, remember to take care of yourself as well. The months spent in the NICU are not easy, but the strength of your micro preemie will inspire you every step of the way. 

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