When a preterm newborn is in NICU, what concern might the mother initially have?

The initial concern a mother might have when her preterm newborn is in the NICU often revolves around the fear of touching the infant. This fear can stem from several factors, including uncertainty about the baby's fragility and the medical equipment surrounding the child. Preterm infants often have specific health vulnerabilities and require specialized care, which can make mothers anxious about causing harm or distress to their newborns. The NICU environment can be overwhelming, and mothers may worry about the appropriateness of their actions, leading to a protective instinct that makes them hesitant to engage with their infant physically.

Other concerns, while valid, may not surface as immediately as the fear of touching. For example, bonding is a common worry, but initially, the instinct to protect the fragile infant can take precedence. Similarly, while providing breast milk and concerns about the father's acceptance are significant issues, they may manifest later after the immediate fear and anxiety about physical interaction are addressed. Thus, the fear of touching the infant accurately reflects an initial emotional response in a stressful situation that has immediate implications for the mother’s relationship with her newborn.