Caring for a premature baby is a physical and emotional challenge. The miracle of birth may be overshadowed by anxiety about your baby's health and the possible long-term effects of prematurity. You may feel anger, guilt, sorrow or regret — perhaps at the same time.

But there's much you can do to take care of your baby — and yourself — as you look toward the future with hope.

Premature babies face many medical challenges.

At first, your baby may need help breathing and maintaining body heat. Feeding your baby may be a challenge. Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) and fewer red blood cells to carry oxygen to the baby's tissues (anemia) are possible. Bleeding into the brain may be a concern as well — especially if your baby was born before 34 weeks.

Very premature babies may have impaired hearing or vision. Learning disabilities or developmental problems may eventually surface as well.

Your baby's special needs call for special care — probably in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The medical professionals caring for your baby will do everything they can to help your baby thrive. Your role as a parent is essential, too.

• Learn as much as you can about your baby's condition. Uncertainty can be frightening. Write down your questions and seek answers when you're ready. The more you know, the better you'll be able to handle the situation.
• Share your observations and concerns. If you notice changes in your baby's condition, tell the medical team right away.
• Establish your milk supply. Breast milk contains proteins that help fight infection and promote growth. Although your baby may not be able to feed from your breast or a bottle at first, breast milk can be given in other ways — or frozen for later use. Begin pumping as soon after birth as possible. For the first few days, pump at least every two to three hours around the clock. Once your milk supply is established, pump at least eight times a day.
• Learn to take care of your baby. When your baby is ready, you'll be able to feed, change and soothe him or her on your own. Speak to your baby in loving tones. Cradle your baby in your arms. Hold your baby under your robe or shirt to allow skin-to-skin contact. If you're feeling unsure, count on the support of your baby's medical team.

You're concentrating on your baby now, but remember that you have special needs, too. Taking good care of yourself will help you take the best care of your baby.

• Allow plenty of time to heal. You may need more time to recover from the rigors of childbirth than you imagined. Eat healthfully, and get as much rest as you can. When your health care provider gives you the OK, make time for exercise, too. Even brisk walks through the hospital hallways or courtyard may lift your spirits.
• Expect to feel overwhelmed. You're under a tremendous amount of strain. You may celebrate successes one day, only to experience setbacks the next. Give yourself permission to take it one day at a time.
• Take a break when you need it. Your baby needs you — but it's important to balance time at the hospital with time for yourself and the rest of your family.
• Accept help from others. Allow friends and loved ones to care for your other children, prepare food, clean the house or run errands. Let them know what would be most helpful.
• Keep a journal. Record the details of your baby's progress, as well as your own thoughts and feelings. Include pictures of your baby.
• Seek support. Surround yourself with understanding friends and loved ones. Talk with other NICU parents. Spend time with your pastor, priest, rabbi or other spiritual leader. Consider joining a local support group for parents of preemies.
• Manage conflict constructively. You and your partner or spouse may react to stress and anxiety differently — but both of you want what's best for your baby. Support each other through respect, understanding and compromise.
• Renew your strength. If you're feeling depressed or you're having trouble managing daily life, consider professional counseling. Even a few visits may enhance your hope for the future.

When it's time to bring your baby home, you may feel relieved, excited — and anxious. After days, weeks or months in the hospital, it may be daunting to leave the on-site support of your baby's medical team behind.

Before you leave the hospital, make sure you're comfortable caring for your baby. Ask as many questions as you need to — nothing is silly or unimportant when it comes to caring for your baby. Schedule follow-up visits with your baby's doctor and find out who to call if you have questions or concerns in the meantime.

You'll always remember your baby's time in the hospital. Now cherish the opportunity to begin making memories at home.