Navigating the NICU: A Pilot study on the lived experiences of mothers with hospitalized Neonates at a Tertiary Care Hospital, Delhi, India

Abstract

Background: Admission of newborns to Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) often triggers emotional distress among mothers. Understanding their lived experiences is essential for developing family-centered care strategies that promote maternal mental health and neonatal outcomes. Objectives: To explore the lived experiences of mothers whose babies were admitted to the NICU at Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi. Methods: A qualitative, phenomenological approach was employed. Five postnatal mothers meeting inclusion criteria participated in in-depth interviews conducted between October 21 and November 2, 2024. Data were analyzed using interpretive phenomenological analysis to extract themes and subthemes. Results: Six major themes emerged: (1) Maternal fear related to NICU admission, (2) Long-term concerns for the baby’s health, (3) Parental bonding and attachment, (4) Emotional impact of seeing the baby with medical equipment, (5) Financial strain and resource management, and (6) Adopting coping mechanisms. These themes highlight the multifaceted emotional, psychological, and socioeconomic burden mothers endure. Conclusion: The findings underscore the need for psychosocial interventions, parental counseling, and enhanced family support systems within NICUs. This pilot study demonstrates the feasibility of a larger-scale investigation to improve maternal experiences and care models in neonatal settings.