Meet NICU Graduate Newborn Baby Logan | August Spotlight | Boise NICU Newborn Photographer
What was baby Logan’s weight and gestational age when he was born?
Baby Logan was born at 32 weeks and he weighed just 2.7 pounds.
Why was baby Logan in the Newborn Intensive Care Unit? How long was he there?
Baby Logan was in the NICU because he was premature. Logan was born early due to severe preeclampsia and HELLP. At birth they discovered that he had suffered from Intra-uterine Growth Restriction (IUGR) and he was only the size of a baby of 28 weeks gestation. He spent a total of 42 days in the NICU.
Can you tell me a little bit about your pregnancy and birth story?
My pregnancy was relatively uneventful. However, I think I may have had Covid-19 in the first trimester of pregnancy, because I had all the symptoms, although I never tested positive for the virus. IUGR is known to be caused by infection, so we believe that is why Logan had IUGR.
We were also monitoring my blood pressure at home. One day, my blood pressure was very high and I had a headache, so we went to the hospital. While we were there, they hoped to be able to delay labor and delivery for another four weeks. I made it 12 hours before the doctor’s ordered an emergency C-section because they were concerned I might have a seizure.
What kind of treatment and procedures did baby Logan have to undergo in the NICU?
When baby Logan was three days old, things turned downhill and Logan began to fuss and get a distended belly. He was rushed into emergency surgery where they discovered that a large portion of his stomach had died and perforated so he was leaking air and milk into his abdomen. The surgery was successful and he remained on a ventilator and replogle for several days. After ten days of no eating he was able to try breastfeeding and now he is eating from the breast and bottle like a champ!
How is baby Logan doing now?
Baby Logan is doing well, except for some discomfort from reflux from the fortifier he has to take with his milk. Luckily, our pediatrician has recommended something to help with the reflux. He is now 9 weeks old and weighs 6 pounds. We are so glad to have him home!
What was the most challenging part about having a baby in the NICU?
Going home every night and leaving our newborn son at the hospital was so painful. It helped knowing he was in such great hands. I also found it challenging to pump around the clock. Knowing I was providing food and stockpiling it for Logan made it easier to keep the momentum of pumping every three hours.
Was there anything you found helpful for coping during your time in the NICU (or beyond)?
Take some time for yourself and your partner. It’s so important to step away and recharge.
