Survival Tips for New Parents in NICU

Having a baby in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) can be an overwhelming experience. It’s a time filled with strong emotions, unexpected challenges, and a steep learning curve. But with some preparation, practical tips, and self-care, you can navigate this difficult time more confidently. Here are survival tips to help new parents thrive during their NICU journey.

Make the Space Around Your Baby Personal

While NICU spaces can feel sterile and impersonal, small touches from home can make it feel more comforting for both you and your baby. Bring photos of yourself, your baby’s siblings, or small gifts from family and friends. Personal items can help differentiate your baby’s space, but remember to avoid clutter that could interfere with medical care.

Be Prepared with Postpartum Products

Packing your hospital bag early can make a big difference.

By 32 weeks: Pack your postpartum essentials for a standard pregnancy.
By 28 weeks: If you have a high-risk pregnancy, plan earlier.

Antenatal expressing is another preparation tool. With the go-ahead from your clinician, you can begin safely hand-expressing colostrum around 36 weeks. Midwives Own Brand colostrum collectors make it easy to express, refrigerate, and freeze colostrum for when your baby needs it most in those early hours and days.

Support Your Birth Recovery

Whether recovering from a C-section or vaginal birth, the right postpartum products can help you heal comfortably:

Instant cold pads and peri spray bottles: Essential for soothing a healing perineum. Disposable underpants: Midwives Own Brand offers breathable, stretchable underpants in Boyleg or Hi Cut styles—a comfortable upgrade from old-style disposable nappies.

Breastfeeding support: From hands-free wearable breast pumps to heat/cold packs for engorgement and lactation massagers for clogged milk ducts, practical tools can make a difference for busy new mums.

Create a Private Space in the NICU

In most NICUs, the setup can feel very public. If you need privacy while staying close to your baby, turn your chair to face inward. Use this time to relax, read, sing softly to your baby, or simply take a quiet moment for yourself.

Write a Journal

Journaling can provide an outlet for your emotions and help you process the NICU experience. Track your baby’s progress, write about your feelings, or document milestones to share with your baby later.

Get Involved in Your Baby’s Care

Actively participating in your baby’s routine can help you bond and build confidence. Plan to be present during your baby’s "cares—times when staff handle tasks like washing your baby’s face, repositioning, or changing diapers. Over time, you’ll feel more comfortable taking over these responsibilities.

Stay Informed and Ask Questions

The NICU environment can feel overwhelming, but don’t hesitate to ask questions if you’re unsure about anything. Build a rapport with the medical staff so you can stay updated on your baby’s condition. Taking notes during ward rounds can also help you remember key details.

Go Easy on Yourself

This is an emotional and physically demanding time, so give yourself grace. It’s okay to skip social events or sleep in if you need to recharge. Looking after your own well-being helps you care for your baby better in the long run.

Plan for Separation from Your Baby

Being discharged before your baby is ready to come home can be one of the hardest parts of the NICU experience. Here are some tips to manage:

Leave a comforting item (like a piece of clothing) with your baby, so they have Mumma’s familiar scent.

Use a breast pump and sterile milk storage bags or containers to ensure a steady milk supply.

Plan how to transport expressed milk safely with a cooler bag.

If you’ve had a C-section, check with your doctor or insurance provider about when it’s safe to drive.

Find out when doctors do rounds so you can plan your visits around these times.

Ask about parking discounts for long-term visits.

Communicate clearly with the nursery staff about your plans and needs, like being present for baths or feedings.

During this time, use any opportunities for self-care: have a date night with your partner, prepare your home, or take a day to spoil yourself before your baby comes home.

Talk to Someone

It’s completely normal to feel a mix of emotions—guilt, anger, sadness, or hopelessness. Talking about your feelings can lighten the load. Reach out to a partner, trusted family member, hospital counselor, or even other NICU parents who understand what you’re going through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When should I pack my hospital bag for a NICU stay?
For standard pregnancies, aim for 32 weeks. For high-risk pregnancies, pack by 28 weeks.

2. Can I visit the NICU at any time?
Most NICUs have visiting hours, but they often allow parents 24/7 access. Check with your hospital for details.

3. What should I bring to personalise my baby’s space?
Bring small photos, gifts, or familiar items, but avoid clutter that may interfere with care.

4. How can I bond with my baby in the NICU?
Take part in routines like changing diapers or bathing your baby, and spend quiet time singing or talking to them.

5. How do I store breast milk for my baby in NICU?
Express milk into sterile containers or bags and keep it cold in a cooler bag until you reach the NICU.

6. Can I drive after a C-section?
You’ll need to consult with your doctor and check your car insurance policy before driving post-surgery.