It helps to know what NICU is like, just in case you spend time there

What is NICU like?

A slightly sensitive topic today, feel free to scroll by if you're affected or not in a headspace to engage. But an important topic that we can't let pass by without discussing.

This month (September) is NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) awareness month. Did you know 1 in 7 babies will access care in NICU when they are born and 60% of those are born at full term?

So why don't we ever talk about what it's like to have a baby in the NICU?

So much of our Trauma Prevention work at birth-ed is to demystify the 'scarier' aspects of maternity. Knowing what an unplanned caesarean or instrumental birth might be like in advance can really help you feel informed in the moment. The same goes for time spent in the NICU. So this is really worth learning about, even if it isn't something you're expecting to need.

I wanted to share with you our NICU podcast episode, where I am joined by Clinical Psychologist (And NICU Mum) Dr Frankie Harrison, who specialises in supporting families during and after time spent in NICU through her work as a psychologist and organisation Miracle Moon.

We discuss the practicalities of caring for a baby on NICU from feeding to dressing them, bonding to going home; but with a strong focus on the emotional experience of being a NICU parent, both in the short and longer term.

Have a listen during pregnancy if you can!