Your Voice in the Nicu

When a preemie is born, so is a parent advocate.

~Ali Dunn, Me Two Books

Having a preemie can make you feel helpless.  The role you envisioned as a caretaker and parent, is not what you are experiencing.  After my twins were born at 28 weeks, I wanted to do everything I could to help them get better. But I didn’t know how. I soon found my voice and learned that it was a very powerful tool. Here are a few ways you can use your voice as a preemie parent.

To Advocate
When a preemie is born, so is a parent advocate.  Parents serve an important role on the care team. While it can be difficult at times, it is so important to advocate for your baby and share your thoughts and concerns. 
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To Bond
Babies can recognize their mother’s voice at 22 weeks gestation. Hearing a familiar voice promotes attachment, produces a calming effect, and can counteract all the background noise from alarms and equipment. Talk or sing to your babies to help build a strong bond.

To Relieve Pain
New and continued research suggest that maternal speech decreases pain scores and increases oxytocin levels in preterm infants during painful procedures.  Your voice can be a simple way to help your baby experience less pain. 

While it may not always feel this way, your voice is very powerful and can be used in many ways to help your premature baby.  Be empowered!

How do you use your voice?