Low birth weight (LBW) is a condition in which babies weigh less than 2.5 kilograms at birth. This condition can be caused by various things. Babies with low birth weight are prone to health problems, so they need extra care.
Based on data from the Ministry of Health, there are 6.2% of babies born with low birth weight (LBW) in Indonesia. LBW often occurs in babies born prematurely (before entering 37 weeks' gestation).
Physically, babies who have low birth weight look thin, have little body fat tissue, and the head looks bigger or disproportionate.
Most low birth weight infants born at term do not experience health problems later in life. But if LBW occurs in premature babies, the following complications can arise:
- Respiratory disorders
- Infection
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
- Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)
- Difficult weight gain
- Growth barriers
- Cold or hypothermia
- Yellow baby
- Eating disorders or difficulty breastfeeding
If you do not get adequate care, babies with low birth weight who experience a variety of complications above will be at high risk of disability, even death.
Causes of low birth weight babies
There are various factors that can cause or increase the risk of a baby born underweight. Some of these factors include:
- Born from mothers who have health problems during pregnancy, such as preeclampsia, high blood pressure, or malnutrition.
- Infection during pregnancy.
- There are genetic abnormalities or birth defects in babies.
- Born from a mother who is underweight during pregnancy.
- The age of the mother during pregnancy is less than 17 years or more than 35 years.
- Twin pregnancy.
In addition, mothers who have unhealthy lifestyles, such as smoking, consuming alcohol, and using drugs are also more at risk of giving birth to babies with low body weight.
Therefore, pregnant women need to avoid various risk factors above, and routinely undergo pregnancy checks to the obstetrician to prevent and anticipate the possibility of a baby born with LBW.
Guide to Caring for Babies with Low Weight
Almost all babies with low birth weight need to be treated in intensive care rooms for newborns (NICU). This treatment will be adjusted to the baby's condition, birth weight, and how severe the health problems he is suffering from.
In the room the baby will get special care, such as being warmed in an incubator, given fluids and medicines through an IV, and given nutrition according to their needs.
This treatment is carried out until the baby's condition improves and is stable, his weight increases, and the doctor states that the baby can be treated at home.
After a baby is allowed to go home, there are a number of things that need attention in caring for babies with low birth weight. These include hygiene, breast milk intake and nutrition, as well as a comfortable environment for babies.
The following are some things that need to be done when caring for babies with low birth weight:
1. Give ASI according to schedule
Breast milk is the best nutrition for babies during the first six months of life. So, it is highly recommended to give enough milk to babies with LBW. Keep in mind, do not give other intake besides breast milk or formula milk to babies under 6 months of age.
Babies with low birth weight should drink breast milk every three hours or even once every two hours. If necessary, wake the baby to suckle when he is asleep.
2. Direct contact with the baby
Premature babies have thin fat tissue, so they will have difficulty maintaining their body temperature to stay warm. Direct contact and holding a baby with the kangaroo method can help maintain the warmth of the baby's body.
In addition, holding a baby with the kangaroo method also provides other benefits, such as:
- Increase baby's weight
- Regulate baby's heart rate and breathing
- Helps babies sleep more soundly
- Make baby more calm and comfortable
3. Accompany baby to sleep
Sleeping with your child makes it easy for Mother to give milk at night. But keep in mind, sleeping with a baby does not mean you have to be in the same bed. You can put your Little One's bed next to your bed. Also, make sure to always put the baby to sleep in the supine position.
4. Monitor the growth and development of infants
Growth disorders is one of the complications that is quite common in infants with low birth weight. Therefore, make sure Mother brings your child to the pediatrician regularly, so that the doctor can monitor his condition and detect the possibility of growth and development problems early on.
5. Complete infant immunization
Premature babies with low birth weight have a weak immune system, making them vulnerable to infectious diseases. To prevent this from happening, make sure the Little Child's immunization schedule is complete and the administration is according to the time recommended by the doctor.
6. Spend more time with the baby
Babies with low birth weight need to always be in optimal conditions and a conducive environment, in order to grow and develop properly. Mother can support growth and development by taking the time to carry or invite him to play. Choose a game that fits your child's age.
7. Don't feel reluctant to seek help
Caring for babies with LBW requires extra effort. This is certainly not easy, especially with the condition of the body of the mother who still needs recovery after giving birth.
To avoid being overwhelmed, you can ask for help from your mother or in-laws for at least the first 40 days after giving birth. That way, Mother can rest to speed up recovery and the Little One is still well maintained.
In addition to the steps above, you also need to take time to do activities that you like, and exercise if you feel ready. This can reduce stress and make you stay excited in caring for your child.
