Health Tip: Bonding With Your Premature Baby

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(HealthDay News) -- Premature babies -- those born earlier than 37 weeks -- are at higher risk of complications and may need to spend time in the hospital's neonatal intensive care until they are healthy enough to go home.

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The American Pregnancy Association offers these suggestions to help you bond with your premature newborn:

• Gently touch or stroke your baby as often as possible.
• Try talking, reading or singing to your baby, who is used to the comforting sound of your voice.
• If allowed, change your baby's diaper yourself.
• Take your baby's temperature when it's time.
• Participate in giving your baby the first bath.

-- Diana Kohnle