Premature Baby Care

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Welcoming a premature baby into the world is a joyful and overwhelming experience. At UnityPoint Health, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our comprehensive resources are designed to help you navigate preterm parenthood with confidence. Whether you need medical insights, information on developmental milestones or emotional support, our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and tools for a happy, and healthy, start together.

NICU Babies

Specialized care for your baby

Babies go to our neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) if they're born prematurely, have difficulties during delivery or show signs of a problem in their first days of life. UnityPoint Health's Neonatal Intensive Care Units offer equipment designed specifically for infants with staff specially trained in newborn care and conditions with 24/7 in-hospital coverage.


Breastfeeding Services

Expert help for feeding your newborn

The decision to breastfeed is a personal one. Breastfeeding provides numerous benefits for you and your baby and is a natural way to bond. Our qualified lactation services staff provide extensive breastfeeding education and support. The services below vary depending on your location.


Pediatric Appointments

Keeping your baby healthy

Visits in the first few days depend on your baby’s needs. The hospital provider will let you know when to go in for your first visit once you're discharged. Your baby will have a visit at two weeks of age, and if all is well, your next visit is at two months. Typically, your baby is at 2, 4, 6, 9 and 12 months in the first year of life.


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Postpartum Self-Care

While taking care of a newborn is important, it's also critical that new mothers take care of their own physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. Our team is here to support with expertise you can trust. We're here for every step of your recovery, from pelvic floor therapy to postpartum depression support, we offer comprehensive postpartum care services that focus on holistic health.

Postpartum Care Resources