If it appears that your baby will be born before 27 weeks you may be transferred to the neonatal unit which is better equipped to manage your babies care. Your baby may be transferred to a regional neonatal centre, if at birth it is noticed that your baby is experiencing problems where they need specialist care. The local regional centre is the John Radcliffe at Oxford.

Should your baby need to be admitted to the neonatal unit the nurses and doctors will explain the treatment and care provided. The staff are always pleased to encourage parents to participate in their baby’s care as much as possible. If you wish to breastfeed but your baby is too poorly, facilities and support are available for you to express breast milk. This milk will be available to feed to your baby when they are well enough.

You may have seen neonatal units on television so will realise there may be a lot of equipment surrounding your baby; this can be a frightening experience.

If your baby does need any equipment it will be explained to you by the doctors or nurses. If you require any information at all you should feel free to ask the staff caring for your baby, please don’t be afraid to ask any questions.

When your baby is ready to go home you will be invited to stay in one of our parent rooms for a couple of nights. During this time you will care for your baby but staff will be available nearby should you need them.