560-gram premature newborn baby in Noida overcomes two-month NICU battle

A hospital in Noida recently witnessed a miraculous medical achievement where a preterm baby born at just 28 weeks, weighing a mere 560 grams, overcame life-threatening complications and was discharged healthy after two months in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

The baby’s parents, Vaishnavi (30) and Saurabh (34) from Banaras faced a challenging pregnancy journey. Vaishnavi’s ordeal began with mild bleeding during the initial five weeks, which persisted until the 14th week. At five weeks of pregnancy during routine antenatal tests, she was diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) with alarmingly high HBA1C levels of 11.

To stabilise the pregnancy, Dr Prerna Sharma, consultant – obstetrician and gynecologist at Motherhood Hospital in Noida initiated treatment that included medications, dietary adjustments, and regular monitoring. Around 20 weeks pregnancy was going fine, all blood tests and ultrasounds were routine but the mother started having raised blood pressure which was managed with medication. 

The situation became more complicated when a 26-week ultrasound revealed impaired fetal growth, mild oligohydramnios (low amniotic fluid levels), and slight abnormalities in the Doppler flow study. This prompted the administration of medications to enhance blood flow and support the baby`s development. However, after treatment, the Doppler growth showed little improvement.

Her condition worsened due to deranged Doppler readings, indicating reduced blood supply to the baby, severe oligohydramnios (low amniotic fluid levels), and severe growth restriction at 28 weeks, the risk to both mother and baby had escalated significantly, necessitating an emergency cesarean section to save the baby’s life.

Dr. Prerna Sharma, consultant – obstetrician and gynecologist at the hospital, explained, “Managing such a high-risk pregnancy required meticulous care and constant vigilance. Vaishnavi’s condition was critical, with severe GDM and FGR compounding the risks. Despite the challenges, the timely interventions ensured the best possible outcome for both mother and baby. This case is a testament to the power of early detection and comprehensive care.”

A team of experts led by Dr Amit Gupta, Dr Nishant Bansal, and Dr Navina Desai provided advanced NICU care to address complications arising from extreme prematurity. 

The baby was placed on a ventilator and given surfactant therapy to support lung maturity. Gradual improvements allowed her to transition to CPAP support and later to independent breathing. During her NICU stay, she battled sepsis and jaundice, which were successfully managed with antibiotics and phototherapy.

Dr Amit Gupta, senior consultant – Paediatrician & Neonatologist, at the hospital, shared, “Preterm babies like this face an uphill battle from the moment they are born. Each day in the NICU was a step toward recovery, requiring careful attention to every detail, from respiratory support to nutritional needs. This baby’s remarkable journey showcases the strength of modern neonatal care and the resilience of life itself.”

The baby’s progress was monitored through regular cranial ultrasounds, which showed normal development, and screenings for Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP), which were clear of any abnormalities.

Dr Gupta and Dr Nishant Bansal, senior consultant – paediatrician & neonatologist at the hospital elaborated, “The baby had severe respiratory distress and underdeveloped organs, which required immediate and sustained intervention. Surfactant therapy and ventilator support were crucial in the early days, followed by CPAP for several weeks. Kangaroo Mother Care also played a vital role in promoting her growth and stability. This outcome reflects the dedication and expertise of our team and the advanced facilities available at our hospital.”

After two months of intensive care, the baby was discharged weighing 1.6 kilograms. She continues to show positive signs of growth and development, achieving milestones appropriate for her age. Regular follow-ups will ensure her continued progress and well-being.

Saurabh, father of the baby girl said, “We are eternally grateful to the entire team at Motherhood Hospital, including the doctors, nurse staff, and LDR team, for their exceptional care and support throughout this journey. Their compassion, and timely intervention gave our daughter the chance to survive and thrive.”