Preemies: The Essential Guide for Parents of Premature Babies

Preemies is the only resource of its kind -- a comprehensive "Dr. Spock"-like reference that is both reassuring and realistic, delivering up-to-the-minute information on medical care in a warm, caring, and engaging voice. Authors Dana Wechsler Linden and Emma Trenti Paroli are parents who have "been there." Together with neonatologist Mia Wechsler Doron, they answer the dozens of questions that parents will have at every stage -- from high-risk pregnancy through preemie's hospitalization, to homecoming and the preschool years -- imparting a vast, detailed store of knowledge in clear language that all readers can understand. Preemies covers topics related to premature birth,including: What are your risk factors for having a premature baby? Can you do something to delay early labor? What do doctors know about you baby's outlook during her first minutes and days of life? How will your preemie's progress be monitored? Can you breastfeed your preemie? How do you cope with a long hospitalization? What should you know if your baby needs surgery? Are there special preparations for you baby's homecoming? What kind of stimulation during the first year gives your baby the best chance? Will your preemie grow up healthy? Normal?