While the world observed Prematurity Day on November 17, today, we spotlight the journey of a mother who gave birth to her son a month earlier than expected.
Jashelle Corry (left) and medical staff (right)
But first, what is World Prematurity Day (WPD)? According to UNICEF, it is a day dedicated to raising awareness about infants born prematurely and the difficulties they face.
This year’s theme was “Over 13 million babies born prematurely every year. Access to quality care everywhere!”
EMERGENCY C-SECTION AND NICU
On October 01, 2023, Jashelle Corry gave birth to a bouncing baby boy—a month before her due date.
I was confused. I was getting signs that something was wrong all day, but I remained calm when Dr. Khan told me I needed an emergency C-section. I just wanted my baby to come out [safely], and he reassured me every step of the way.
Corry and her bouncing baby boy
However, the challenges did not end after delivery. Corry’s baby boy was admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) for observation and care.
The most challenging part about my baby being in the NICU was not being able to have skin-to-skin contact until he was four days old. I had to spend nearly a day in recovery and another five hours lying on the bed before I could get up and move around to be with him. It was tough. I cried sometimes, I stressed all the time, wondering when I’d get to take my baby home. When I found out I had to wait seven days because he was on antibiotics, I started counting the days down.
Despite the whirlwind experience, this first-time mom found moments of joy.
Seeing him latch to breastfeed, hearing him cry when he needed to bathe or let the nurses know he was hungry […] those moments gave me hope.
Yet, watching other mothers leave the hospital with their babies was bittersweet.
I remember seeing the other mothers taking their babies home, and I started to cry, wondering when I would get to go home with my baby.
Corry advises mothers who deliver prematurely to trust their medical team and hold on to hope.
Hang in there and trust the doctors and nurses. They know what they’re doing! Love your baby just the same as if he or she wasn’t premature. Prematurity doesn’t mean your baby won’t have a normal life. I’ve lived to see my baby grow up exceptionally blessed.
NEONATOLOGISTS IN PREMATURE BIRTH CARE: DR. NAITRAM SINGH
Dr. Naitram Singh, a Paediatrician and Neonatologist with five years of specialised experience, shared with ThingsGuyana the critical care required for premature infants.
Dr. Naitram Singh, a Paediatrician and Neonatologist
For context, a Neonatologist specialises in the care of critically ill newborns, particularly those born prematurely or with serious health issues.
Drawing on his 13 years of general medical practice, Dr. Singh explained that factors such as maternal infections, multiple pregnancies, high blood pressure, smoking, drug use, and uterine or cervical complications can lead to premature births.
The causes are numerous, and each situation requires specialised attention to ensure the baby’s health.
He highlighted that premature babies often face health challenges such as respiratory difficulties, feeding problems, and temperature regulation.
Premature babies with smaller gestational ages often require ventilator support and incubators to maintain body heat. Early intervention can significantly improve the long-term health and survival of premature infants.
DOLLETTE MOFFATT: ADDRESSING PREMATURE BIRTH CHALLENGES
Dr. Dollette Moffatt, a Paediatrician with over seven years of experience, spoke about the challenges premature babies face in their early days.
Premature infants can develop severe respiratory distress, infections, and difficulty feeding, all of which require intensive care. It’s crucial to intervene within the first minute of life to give the baby the best chance of survival.
Dr. Dollette Moffatt, a Paediatrician
Dr. Moffatt encouraged all pregnant women to attend prenatal clinics and follow prescribed treatments, especially those with chronic conditions such as hypertension.
A healthy pregnancy is more likely to result in a healthy baby.
NURSES: COMPASSIONATE CARE IN THE NICU
Among the unsung heroes in this journey are the nurses who work tirelessly to ensure that premature infants receive the best possible care.
Nurse Shelly Niles, who works in the NICU at the West Demerara Regional Hospital (WDRH), shared insights into the daily life of caring for premature babies.
Nurse Niles with a baby that was in NICU of the West Demerara Regional Hospital (WDRH)
A typical day in the NICU is intense but rewarding. It involves not only caring for the babies but also educating and supporting their families. Premature infants often have underdeveloped organs, leading to complications like respiratory distress and difficulty feeding. Providing emotional support to families is equally important as caring for the babies.
Nurse Niles emphasised the importance of skin-to-skin contact, also known as kangaroo care, which helps stabilise the baby’s heart rate and breathing.
It’s vital for parents to be involved in their baby’s care, from feeding to diaper changes, as it fosters a strong emotional bond.
Nurse Niles shared that the most rewarding aspect of her job is witnessing the incredible progress of the babies she cares for.
Seeing a fragile newborn thrive and eventually go home with their family is the most fulfilling part of my work.
But while the NICU offers life-saving interventions, the emotional toll on families is undeniable, says Nurse Elliott-Gomes.
It’s not just about medical care; it’s about supporting the families who are often scared and anxious.
Nurse Elliott-Gomes
RAISING AWARENESS: WHY SUPPORT MATTERS
Premature birth is a complex issue that requires comprehensive care and support, says Dr. Singh.
With advancements in neonatal care, the survival rates for premature babies in Guyana have improved, but there’s still a lot of work to do in raising awareness and supporting these families.
