Читать книгу Sister Lilian’s Babycare Companion: Complimentary and traditional care - Lilian Paramor - Страница 81

Parents in this position often have to grapple with the possibility that their child might not live. One day everything might look very positive, the next you might be summoned to your baby’s bedside urgently, as medical personnel fear for her life. Nothing can prepare you for the sight of your own little baby lying there in the sterile and mechanical environment of an intensive neonatal unit, attached to all manner of life support systems. Close physical contact with a very ill, preterm infant will be kept to a minimum because of the danger of infection, although it is fortunately realised nowadays that a parent’s, and particularly a mother’s presence is an extremely important factor in the baby’s progress. I would encourage parents to try to be there for their babies (who also have to deal with their own shock) as much as possible. A loving grandparent can also help to keep vigil, imbuing the atmosphere with hope and a personal touch.

The possible ramifications of prematurity are manifold. Not only might you be confronted with your own ill child, but you may well be privy to the misfortunes of other parents and their babies. Your whole existence will be affected by this unexpected turn of events. Extreme tiredness might engulf you, anger at life, God, your spouse, the medical personnel, friends and relations who have sailed through the experiences of pregnancy and birth, are likely to strike you at some time or another. Do not deny these feelings, as they are quite normal and very common.