Postpartum

Caring for Yourself as a NICU Parent

June 6, 2026

Key takeaways: NICU parents face high rates of stress, anxiety, and depression. Taking care of yourself helps you care for your baby. Get involved in hands-on care like skin-to-skin and diaper changes, ask questions, accept help, rest, eat, and connect with NICU social workers and parent support programs.

The NICU journey can feel overwhelming. You’re an important part of your baby’s care team.

Common Feelings

  • Fear and uncertainty.
  • Guilt or grief about the birth you expected.
  • Feeling helpless or like a visitor.
  • Exhaustion.
  • Feeling disconnected from your baby.

All of these are normal.

Being Involved

Many NICUs encourage family-centered care. Ask about:

  • Skin-to-skin (kangaroo care).
  • Diaper changes, temperature checks, and mouth care.
  • Providing breast milk if you’re able.
  • Joining rounds and asking questions.
  • Reading or singing to your baby.

Taking Care of Yourself

  • Recover from birth: follow your own postpartum instructions.
  • Eat and drink regularly.
  • Sleep: go home to rest when you can. It’s okay to take breaks.
  • Pump on a schedule if providing milk, and ask for a hospital-grade pump.
  • Accept help with meals, transportation, and siblings.

Getting Support

  • NICU social workers can help with emotional support, lodging, transportation, and finances.
  • Parent support programs connect you with families who have been there.
  • Mental health screening: ask about it. NICU parents have higher rates of depression and anxiety.
  • Ronald McDonald House and similar programs may offer lodging.

Communication

  • Keep a notebook for questions and updates.
  • Ask for regular updates.
  • Learn about your baby’s care plan.

Preparing for Discharge

  • Ask about home equipment, medications, and follow-up appointments.
  • Take infant CPR training.
  • Ask about early intervention.

Reach out to the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or call or text 988 if you’re struggling.

The Bottom Line

Your well-being matters. Get involved in your baby’s care, take care of yourself, and use the support available.

Want more support for your baby’s first year? My book, From First Breath to First Birthday, is available on Amazon.

Sources

  1. Hall SL, Hynan MT, Phillips R, et al. The neonatal intensive parenting unit: an introduction. J Perinatol. 2017;37(12):1259-1264.
  2. March of Dimes. NICU family support; caring for yourself in the NICU. https://www.marchofdimes.org
  3. American Academy of Pediatrics. Coping with your baby’s NICU stay. HealthyChildren.org. https://www.healthychildren.org

This article is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice. Always talk with your baby’s health care provider or your own provider about your specific situation. If you think your baby or you may have a medical emergency, call 911.

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