Babies who arrive before 37 weeks, have a low birth weight or have a medical condition, might need extra support in the neonatal unit after they’re born. There are lots of reasons a baby might be born before 37 weeks including an infection, having more than one baby, problems with the womb, a medical emergency like high blood pressure, lifestyle risks such as smoking or taking drugs and some medical conditions.
This can come as a huge shock to parents or you may know during pregnancy that your baby is likely to need some extra support when they arrive. Bliss has collected tips from other parents about ways to help you prepare if your baby is likely to need additional care, including visiting the neonatal unit, asking any questions you have, and finding out more about the emotional support available for you. Tommy’s has lots on information on pre-term birth. You can find out more about the support we offer to families with a baby who has arrived early or unwell in our birth to one-year old section.
Useful resources
- Find information and support if your baby is premature or unwell from Bliss
- Bump, Birth and Beyond has great information on support from your midwifery team.
Page last reviewed: 01/01/2025, next review due: 01/01/2028