The birth of a baby is a marvelous event. It marks a significant transformation for the mother and the start of a remarkable journey for the newborn. However, the course of this journey may be altered due to prevailing circumstances.

 

It is estimated that 134 lakh babies were born prematurely in 2020, of which 30 lakh or 22% were from India.

 

A  significant percentage  of these preterm babies  that can be successfully  looked after in the NICU .managed by promptly delivering NICU treatment to the infants requiring care. From premature birth to complications after birth, the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) becomes the place where  this specialized treatment is provided.

 

Did you know that India ranks amongst the top 5 countries with the highest preterm birth rates? However, there is hope. 

 

With the rise in advanced healthcare facilities, India has the potential to reduce its mortality rate among newborns. This is where NICU plays a crucial role in preventing death by treating the following conditions:  

 

- Prematurity: Babies born before 37 weeks of pregnancy often require specialized care in the NICU due to their underdeveloped organs and systems.

 

- Low Birth Weight: Infants born with a birth weight of less than 5.5 pounds (2,500 grams) might need NICU care to monitor their growth and provide necessary support.

 

- Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS): This condition occurs in premature infants due to underdeveloped lungs, leading to breathing difficulties. These babies would need respiratory support and some may need instillation of surfactant into their lungs. All this is done in the NICU.

 

- Jaundice: Many newborns experience jaundice, which causes a yellowish tint in the skin and eyes. In severe cases, phototherapy may be administered in the NICU. There are rare instances where an exchange transfusion may be required. 

 

- Infections: Newborns can be susceptible to various infections, such as pneumonia, sepsis, or infections caused by gram-negative bacteria. 

 

- Birth Defects: Babies born with congenital abnormalities or genetic conditions may require specialized treatment and monitoring in the NICU.

 

- Hypoglycemia: Some infants may have low blood sugar levels, necessitating careful monitoring and glucose support.

 

- Feeding Difficulties: Premature or ill babies might face challenges with feeding and require specialized feeding techniques or nutritional support.

 

Necrotising Enterocolitis: Some preterm babies may develop this complication, necessitating stoppage of feeds and intravenous nutrition for significant periods 

 

- Apnea: Premature babies may experience apnea, which is a temporary pause in breathing that requires monitoring and intervention.

 

- Intraventricular Hemorrhage (IVH): This condition refers to bleeding in the brain's ventricles, which can occur in premature infants.

 

- Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and other infections: Preterm infants are particularly vulnerable to respiratory infections, such as RSV.

 

- Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA): Some premature babies may have a persistent opening between two major blood vessels in the heart that requires treatment.

 

Our experts' primary goal is to provide specialized medical care and support to ensure the best possible outcomes for newborns in need of intensive care . The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Medanta stands as a beacon of expert care for newborns, including preemies (born before 37 weeks gestation) and infants with rare or complex medical conditions, requiring specialized attention and even surgeries. 

When a baby is found to have a medical condition before birth, our diverse team of experts will collaborate with the parents to develop a personalized care plan. This meticulous approach leaves no room for uncertainty, ensuring the best possible outcome for the baby.

Our vision is to help every child realize their  full potential and help families stay united. 

And it is this heartfelt goal that fuels our dedication to care, every day.