Hospital staff, patients and mothers celebrate life on World Prematurity Day

On November 19, Newcastle Provincial Hospital celebrated World Prematurity Day with staff, patients and mothers.

With the aim of informing and educating mothers about premature babies and how to care for them in the correct manner, the hospital’s medical team set about hosting an informative meeting discussing various topics.

“Women and mothers of Newcastle need to be aware that delivering a premature baby is not the end of the world, but the beginning of the long journey to ensure the child can grow to be normal and live a long and very happy life,” said Dr Busi Mahlaba, who is the leading paediatrician at the hospital and also the Head of Department for Child Health.

As the hospital experiences over 700 deliveries annually, and 120 of those deliveries are born prematurely, the medical team and Dr Mahlaba are persistent that the public be aware of the complications that follow if the infants are not cared for correctly.

“The baby that is born prematurely can experience malnutrition, a high BPS, HIV and TB, depending on the health status of the mother. It is therefore crucial the child is cared for in the correct manner, especially in the first few months of their life,” added Dr Mahlaba.

Individuals who are considering starting a new family should take a few points into consideration.

The medical team from the Newcastle Provincial Hospital provided the following tips and guidelines:

1. Functional family planning is a necessity.
2. Ensure you have a good nutrition plan before you plan on becoming pregnant.
3. Have a good support system that will be there for every step of the way; emotionally, physically and verbally.
4. Be sure to seek medical guidance and assistance.

ALSO READ: Furious residents rage at Madadeni Hospital service

Contact us

WhatsApp: 082 874 5550

Email: Reveshni Douglas (Editor) at reveshni@caxton.co.za

Make sure you follow us for regular updates: