NICU Top Tips from a NIMBA Mum

NICU Top Tips

Advice from a NIMBA mum who spent 34 days in NICU with twins born at 33 weeks

1. Take care of yourself
NICU is a marathon. Build in time to rest, eat, and reset before entering the nursery.

2. Skin-to-skin contact
‘Kangaroo care’ helps regulate babies' body temperature and supports bonding. Do this as often as possible.

3. Feeding support
Premature babies often require NG tube feeds. Parents can help by holding feeds and associating feeding time with cuddles.

4. Pumping essentials
Invest in a hospital-grade pump or hire one. Most units supply parts and have storage areas. Looking at photos of your babies or eating a small treat can help if pumping feels difficult. These are not permitted for sale on Facebook Marketplace (search milk-shake maker if you want!), so ask in our chat groups if anyone has one to pass on yet.

5. Be involved
Nurses usually hand over care tasks to parents. Take the lead when you feel ready — nappies, baths, feeds — it all counts.

6. Feeding choices
If using formula, small bottles are usually available. Communicate your preferences with staff — your voice matters.

7. Stay connected
Save the room’s direct phone number to your mobile. Call anytime for updates, even overnight.

8. Look after your health
Request lactation support and don’t hesitate to seek medical help for yourself while still at the hospital.

9. Bring your gear
A feeding pillow can help when transitioning to direct feeds. Pack a long charging cable and large water bottle. Prepare your hospital bag around 30 weeks.

10. Document the journey
Photos and videos help capture the experience and reduce the need for constant updates to loved ones.

11. Transitioning home
Some hospitals offer a 'rooming-in' period before discharge — a helpful way to build confidence.

12. Accept help
Let others support you with driving to the hospital, meals, laundry, errands, or care for other children. Every little bit counts.

13. Advocate when needed
Liaise with the hospital's parent support or care coordinators — they’re there to help.

💛 NICU/SCN can be a challenging but important time. Remember, you’re not alone.

This content is provided by NIMBA families and is intended for general peer to peer support only. It is absolutely and in no way a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. ALWAYS seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

This article was first published in NIMBA member newsletter Noah’s Ark, Issue 310 | February 2024