Getting support after a NICU stay

Adjusting after a premature birth or NICU stay

If your twins, triplets or more have spent time in a neonatal intensive care unit, you may have mixed feelings about going home. You might feel relieved to leave the hospital, but also anxious about losing round-the-clock care.

These feelings are very common. Life at home can feel very different without monitors, nurses and doctors close by. You may worry about your babies’ breathing, feeding or weight gain. You might also feel tired, emotional or on edge after weeks of travelling to and from the hospital.

It can help to remember you’re not expected to manage everything alone. There are services, charities and community organisations ready to support you and your babies as you settle into home life.

What to expect when you come home from neonatal care

Coming home is a huge step and it’s normal if it doesn’t feel completely joyful at first. You’ve been through a lot, both physically and emotionally. Premature birth or a NICU stay can be a shock, even if you knew it was likely.

You may notice: feeling anxious when monitors are no longer in place, checking your babies often, or worrying when they sleep for longer. You might also feel torn between your babies if one needs more care. Many parents of multiples find it hard to juggle feeding, medication, appointments and everyday tasks.

Sleep can be disrupted for a long time, especially with more than one newborn. You might also be recovering from birth, surgery or health complications yourself. All of this can affect your mood and energy.

Planning support early can make a real difference. Think about who can help with practical tasks, who you can talk to, and which professionals you can call if you’re worried.

Types of support available after neonatal care

Most neonatal units offer outreach or community support once your babies are home. Outreach nurses can help with discharge planning, answer questions and arrange home visits. They may check feeding, weight gain and medication, and help you feel more confident handling equipment or following care plans. Keep contact details for your neonatal team somewhere easy to find and don’t hesitate to call if you’re unsure about anything.

Emotional health is just as important as physical recovery. Anxiety, low mood and intrusive thoughts are common after a premature birth or NICU stay, especially when you’re caring for more than one baby. Your GP or health visitor can share information about local support, including perinatal mental health teams. They can discuss treatment options with you, such as talking therapies or medication, if needed.

National charities, such as PANDAS Foundation, offer helplines, support groups and online information for parents experiencing perinatal anxiety or depression. Reaching out for this support protects your wellbeing and helps you care for your babies. It isn’t a sign of weakness.

Volunteer-led organisations can also be a lifeline. Services like Home-Start [LINK] may offer home visits, help with shopping, meal preparation or laundry, and a listening ear. This kind, non-judgemental support can create breathing space while you adjust to caring for your children at home.

You may also be eligible for in-home support (LINK) through Twins Trust. This can offer focused, practical help from trained staff and volunteers who understand the challenges of caring for twins, triplets or more. Local community groups, including churches and other faith or community centres, may provide extra support such as baby groups, food parcels or friendly visitors.

Online communities (LINK) can be another valuable source of connection. Facebook groups, forums and multiple birth clubs can share tips about feeding, sleep and life at home after NICU. Always double-check any medical advice with your neonatal team, health visitor or GP.

You might find it helpful to:

• Ask for help as early as you can, rather than waiting until you feel overwhelmed
• Be specific when you ask, for example requesting help with meals, laundry or attending appointments
• Keep a simple list of who you can call for medical questions, emotional support and practical help

Moving forward with confidence after a NICU stay

A premature birth or NICU stay can feel isolating, but you’re not alone. Many parents of twins, triplets or more have faced similar feelings of fear, exhaustion and uncertainty when bringing their babies home.

Charities such as Bliss [LINK], Miracle Moon [LINK https://www.miraclemoon.co.uk/] and PANDAS Foundation (LINK, volunteer organisations like Home-Start, and local health and community services can all play a part in supporting your family.

Reaching out for help is a sign of strength. Each step you take to build your support network can make the transition home smoother and less overwhelming. With the right help around you, you can grow in confidence and enjoy more of the precious moments with your babies.