Support for Parents of Premature Babies
Preparing to bring your baby home from the NICU can be an exciting but daunting time.
To help you feel informed and prepared, we have developed a six-part video series featuring our multidisciplinary neonatal team, alongside footage of NICU families, to provide practical advice, guidance and reassurance as you prepare for life at home with your baby.
We are proud to support babies and families every step of the way.
These videos were made possible thanks to Spark funding.
Explore our video series
Preparing to Take Your Premature Baby Home
With Orla Smyth, Clinical Midwife Specialist
Preparing to leave the NICU can bring a mixture of excitement and uncertainty. This video offers guidance to help parents prepare for bringing their premature baby home for the first time.
Bottle Feeding for Premature or Medically Complex Babies
With Ciara O’Byrne, Speech and Language Therapist
Learn more about bottle feeding premature or medically complex babies, with expert guidance to help parents understand their baby’s feeding needs.
Neurodevelopmental Support for Premature or Medically Complex Babies
With Sara Kift, Occupational Therapist
Discover how parents can support their baby’s development and learn about the importance of neurodevelopmental care for premature or medically complex babies.
Your NICU Journey Starts with Learning a New Language
With Mary O’Connor, NICAP Clinical Nurse Specialist
Learn about how the Newborn Individualised Developmental Care & Assessment Program or ‘NIDCAP’ helps us to understand how newborn and preterm babies communicate through their behaviour. Their tiniest reactions can guide us to understand what they need from us. As you watch and see how your baby communicates you will become more reassured as a parent and better prepared to support your baby’s development.
Breastfeeding Education and Support for Families of Preterm Babies
With Iby Chacko, Clinical Midwife Specialist in Lactation
Access expert guidance on breastfeeding premature babies and learn about the support available to families as they establish feeding after leaving the NICU.
Nutrition for Baby
With Fiona Dunlevy, Dietitian Manager
Learn about the nutritional needs of premature babies and the role nutrition plays in supporting their growth and development.
These videos are intended to complement the guidance provided by your baby’s clinical team. If you have questions about your baby’s individual care, speak to your healthcare professional.
Parent Education Videos & Classes
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Parent Education - Labour & Birth
Every woman’s labour is different and it can be difficult to know when labour has actually started. While some experience a sudden onset, most have a gradual lead-in.
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Parent Education - Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a time which brings many changes to a woman’s body and it is important that you are aware of what to expect and what you can do to help yourself during this time.
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Parent Education - Parenting
Having a baby is an incredibly precious time of a woman’s life and although there can be challenges along the way, it is a whole new chapter in your life.
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Parent Education - Classes
The Coombe Hospital offers free online and in-person antenatal classes, including birth preparation, hypnobirthing, breastfeeding, and VBAC
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Parent Education - Class Dates
Stay informed on best practices for you and your baby. Find out where the latest Coombe Parent Education Online and In Person Classes are happening here.
Choose The Right Care For You
Our clinics offer tailored care for every stage of a woman’s life, from family planning and maternity to menopause and beyond. Whether you choose Public, Semi-Private, or Private services, we are here to provide expert, compassionate care that supports your health and well-being every step of the way.
Public Clinic
If you are living and working in Ireland and have the PRSI contributions or you have a medical card you can access free maternity and newborn care.
Semi Private Clinic
The semi-private clinic is a fee based option. Most women who choose this clinic use private health insurance to cover costs.
Private Clinic
There are a number of consultant obstetricians offering services through our private clinic. Antenatal care fees vary between consultants..
Patient Experience
Every patient’s path to diagnosis and treatment is individual. No matter your specific journey, we believe in empowering you to take an active role in your healthcare.
Departments & Services
Help & Support
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Appointments:
All appointments can be directed through Hospital reception: 01 408 5200, 24 hours a day -
Health Insurance:
We operate a direct payment scheme with VHI, Laya Healthcare, Irish Life Health, Garda Medical Aid, ESB, Medical Provident Fund, and Prison Officers Medical Aid. If you are covered by any of these insurers, the relevant insurance forms are signed electronically on your admission to hospital.
Fees:
For more information on Fees - visit our Hospital Charges page -
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The Resource Page:
Browse our collection of patient resources, brochures, and information leaflets—all in one place. Downloadable and easy to access, these documents cover everything from appointments and procedures to maternity, newborn care, and more.
Contact Us
Tel: 01 408 5200
Find Us
The Coombe Hospital
Switchboard:
Location:
Cork St, Dublin, D08 XW7X