Mothers' Experiences of Getting Involved in the Daily Procedures of Newborns' in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Abstract

Introduction The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is a specialized environment, where parental participation is important not only for the wellbeing of the newborn, but also for parents' own confidence and emotional health. Care in the medical facility often takes place in an environment filled with strict rules, which poses a big physical, emotional and psychological challenge not only for the patient’s parents, but also for the healthcare professionals (1). Parental involvement leads towards better newborn health indicators, stronger emotional bond, reduced stress, a more positive experience during treatment and lastly, more successful long term parenting (2). Aim To describe mothers’ experiences when it comes to their involvement towards daily care of the newborn in the NICU. Methods Study is a phenomenological semi-structured interview study conducted at the NICU of the Hospital of Lithuanian University of Health Sciences. Approval to conduct the study was obtained from the LSMU Bioethics Center (No. 2025-BEC2-0521). All mothers caring for their newborns at the NICU for at least one week between May and September 2025 were invited to participate. Mothers who did not speak Lithuanian or who did not wish to participate were excluded. In total, eight mothers were included in the study. Results Data analysis revealed the following result categories: Early engagement. Mothers while under the care of NICU stated that they were offered first contact with their newborn during the first day after giving birth, “ started participating pretty much on the very first day after birth…” (Mother 1). The mothers have also learned the required skills gradually. Further engagement. Mothers who ended up in the care of NICU had experienced complicated pregnancies or childbirth. “Once my health got better, I was instantly offered to take part towards the care” (Mother 8). While taking care of their newborns, mothers are gradually introduced to more responsibilities and tasks, gaining confidence in their abilities and having chance to stay with their newborns for longer periods. The father’s participation and adaptation in the environment of NICU highlights a practical and emotional support for the mother and their newborn. “The father was also fully integrated into all of the procedures, though he was quite scared in the beginning” (Mother 7). Emotions experienced by mothers. Mothers find close correlation of their emotions with the uncertainty that comes with taking care of their fragile newborn. “I mentioned that there was fear, lack of courage that you might do something wrong” (Mother 3). The opportunity to make contact with their newborn in the NICU strengthens motherhood and the emotional connection with the newborn. Conclusions Mothers are gradually introduced to the everyday procedures and care of their newborn. The involvement of mothers strengthens the bond with the newborn while building the foundation for their strong motherhood.