By Gilbert Akampa Kakurugu
HEALTH
As we approach World Prematurity Day on November 17th, we reflect on the extraordinary journeys of countless families who have faced the challenges of premature birth. This special day is not just a time to raise awareness but also to celebrate the triumphs and resilience of these tiny fighters and their families.
On June 12, 2024, Kamwiine Peace Deborah experienced the unexpected when contractions began at just seven months into her pregnancy. Rushed to the hospital, she delivered a baby weighing just 1.3 kilograms. The delicate newborn was immediately transferred to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Holy Innocents Children’s Hospital, where the family spent seven intense days. “The medical team, led by the compassionate and dedicated Dr. Mike, provided unwavering support and care, guiding the baby through those critical early moments,” Kamwiine stated.
The Power of Kangaroo Care
Upon discharge, Kamwiine embraced “kangaroo care,” a method of holding the baby skin-to-skin to promote warmth and bonding. This simple yet powerful practice played a significant role in the baby’s recovery and growth. Today, at four months old, the baby weighs a healthy 5 kilograms, a testament to the love, care, and medical expertise that surrounded them.
As the world nears the celebration of World Prematurity Day, the family expresses their profound gratitude to Neocare hospital where she was delivered of her baby and Holy Innocents Children’s Hospital and the entire medical teams for their dedication and commitment to saving newborn lives. They also extend their heartfelt thanks to the community and God for providing strength and support during this challenging journey. Kamwiine advised pregnant women to always be prepared at all times because you never know such can happen and the child can only be saved if you rush to the hospital. She revealed that she could have lost her baby off she wasn’t prepared enough.
According to Dr. Mike Kyewalyanga, a paediatrician at Holy Innocents Children’s Hospital in Mbarara, having a premature baby takes a huge emotional, physical and and financial toll on parents and caretakers. This often leaves parents confused, shocked, guilty because of the anxiety of what the future holds.
According to WHO 1baby in 10 is born premature contributing to 15 million babies and out of these babies born prematury, and 1 million usually die due to prematurity.
He advised mothers of premature babies on many topics, including feeding, sleep, temperature, and hygiene. He noted that Premature babies usually need 8–10 feedings a day, with no more than 4 hours between feedings. Six to eight wet diapers per day indicate that your baby is getting enough milk or formula.
Among other things to pay attention to is sleep: He advised mothers to always place their preterm babies in their own beds and avoid co-sleeping,Keeping the room calm and dim, and avoid direct sunlight, The room temperature should be 16–20°C, make sure your baby isn’t too hot or cold. Keep their cot away from radiators and heaters.
Kyewalyanga also advised mothers to pay close attention to their baby’s hygiene if they want to spend less time in the hospital and for better treatment outcomes.
