Tips for soothing a preemie

Would you like to better understand the delicate nature of premature babies and learn valuable preemie soothing tips?

Premature babies (preemies) get upset for the same reasons that all babies get upset: because crying is their sole method of communication. For this reason, the best way to approach soothing your preemie is to address the source of their irritation. Here are some suggestions as to what might be bothering your infant:

Suggestions for Feeding

Many babies struggle with reflux or gas, and this is certainly the case for preemies. Here are some ways to make feeding go more smoothly.

• Burp your preemie frequently during feeding. Instead of waiting until the baby is done eating, burp your infant every five minutes while you are feeding him or her to eliminate painful gas later.
• Keep the baby’s head above the rest of his or her body while feeding. This promotes optimal digestion and reduces the occurrence of reflux so that feeding time will be more pleasant for your preemie.

• If your preemie is upset, place the child against your own skin so that they can feel skin to skin contact. This is comforting to the infant, making the child feel more secure and safe.
• Swaddling your infant with a swaddling blanket will also encourage feelings of safety and warmth, much like the conditions in the womb. This is a great way to soothe a cranky preemie.

• Turn down the phone ringer and any automated alarms, and encourage others to speak quietly. Minimizing disturbances for your preemie will help them get the rest they need and keep them calmer overall.
• Keep the light levels low. Preemies left the womb earlier than full-term infants, so they are not prepared for the intense light levels in most rooms.