Your First NICU Visit

What to Expect

• You'll wash your hands thoroughly or use hand sanitizer before entering.
• You may also be asked to wear a gown depending on your NICU's policies.
• The room may be bright with machines, monitors, and alarms.
• Your babies may be in incubators, on breathing support, or connected to several monitors.
• Seeing all the equipment for the first time can be emotional. It gets easier as you begin to understand what everything does.

Meeting Your Care Team

Your babies may have several people caring for them throughout the day, including nurses, neonatologists, respiratory therapists, lactation consultants, and other specialists.

If someone introduces themselves, don't worry if you forget their name. There are many new faces during a NICU stay. Feel free to ask who someone is or what their role is at any time.

During Your Visit

• You can usually touch your babies with clean hands.
• Ask the nurse what is safe for your babies today.
• You may be able to help with diaper changes, temperature checks, or skin-to-skin care when appropriate.
• You can talk, read, or sing softly to your babies.
• It is perfectly okay to simply sit quietly beside them.
• Many parents find it helpful to ask one or two simple questions during each visit.

Practical Tips

• Bring your phone or camera if you would like photos. Ask your NICU about any photography rules first.
• Wear comfortable clothes. Visits often last longer than expected.
• Bring a water bottle and a snack if you plan to stay awhile.
• Keep a notebook or use your phone to write down updates and questions.
• It is okay to step out for a break if you begin to feel overwhelmed.
• Ask about visiting hours and any rules for partners, grandparents, or support people.

A Note for Twin Parents

You may see your twins in separate beds or even different rooms during their NICU stay. This is common and simply depends on each baby's medical needs.

One twin may seem to reach milestones before the other. That can be hard emotionally, but it is also very normal. Try to remember that each baby is on their own journey.

Spend time with both babies when you can, but do not put pressure on yourself to split every visit perfectly. Your love is not measured by the number of minutes you spend at each bedside.

Remember

You are your babies' parent. Your voice, your touch, and your presence matter more than you may realize.

The NICU can feel intimidating on the first day. With each visit, the machines become a little less scary, the routines become more familiar, and your confidence will grow.

Be gentle with yourself. This is a lot to take in, and you do not have to navigate it alone.