What happens after my baby is born?

If your baby is born after 34 weeks he may not need any additional treatment. Your baby may look small but he should be able to go with you to the postnatal ward. If you have had your baby before 34 weeks your baby may need more specialised care and attention.

Premature babies are more likely to experience difficulty in terms breathing, feeding and are more prone to infection. Your baby may be taken straight to the neonatal unit (NICU) and it may be a very upsetting experience for you. If your baby is born before 28 weeks then the hospital may need to give it specialised care until the baby is healthy enough to go into the outside world with you.

Possible complications in childbirth:

• Possible complications in childbirth
• Premature Labour
• Causes of Premature Labour
• What Should I do if I go into Premature Labour?
• What will happen at the hospital if I am giving birth prematurely?
• What happens after my baby is born?

• Where can I find Support for Premature babies?
• Problems with the umbilical cord
• Foetal distress
• Problems with the placenta
• Postpartum haemorrhage
• The Neonatal Unit