A neonatologist (nee-oh-nay-TOL-uh-jisst) is a doctor who provides specialist medical care for newborn babies, particularly those who are ill or born prematurely (high-risk infants). Neonatology is a subspecialty of paediatrics.
Most pregnancies and births occur without complications. However, there are still cases where complications arise, and neonatologists play a crucial role in managing these situations.
Meeting with a Neonatologist Antenatally:
If your routine antenatal screening shows an abnormal result, your obstetrician will refer you to a neonatologist for further tests to confirm the presence of any abnormalities or conditions and to make a diagnosis. These conditions may include congenital or genetic issues, often referred to as birth defects or congenital abnormalities. Examples of these include Down syndrome or spina bifida.
The neonatologist will then discuss treatment options and plan for the care of your baby after birth. They will be present at the hospital during delivery and will work closely with your obstetrician to ensure that both you and your baby receive the necessary care.
Meeting with a Neonatologist Postnatally:
Sometimes, newborn emergencies arise when a baby is born with unexpected complications. In such cases, the neonatologist will meet with you to discuss the situation in more detail and will provide treatment for your baby after birth.
Neonatologists can help provide:
- Care for newborns in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
- Preterm (Premature) Delivery & Care
- Treatment for Newborn Infections & Sepsis
- Newborn Resuscitation & Urgent Care
- Care for Respiratory Distress Syndrome,
- Ventilation & other Newborn Breathing Conditions
- Care for Seizures & Encephalopathy (conditions that cause dysfunction in the brain)
- Phototherapy for Jaundice
Neonatologist in the Cayman Islands:
Dr Sara Watkin is our Consultant Paediatrician and Neonatologist at Optimal Healthcare. She is also the only tertiary-qualified, accredited neonatologist (and former tertiary NICU Chief of Service) in the Cayman Islands.
In addition to neonatology, Dr Watkin offers regular delivery and newborn care services, such as attending deliveries, baby checks, newborn screening, and immunisations.
We understand that discussing neonatology and newborn emergencies can cause anxiety for expecting parents. However, neonatologists play a crucial role in ensuring early diagnosis, effective care, and management of your newborn if complications arise.
Early identification and diagnosis are vital for the effective management of newborn conditions. Therefore, it is important to ensure you do not miss any antenatal appointments or tests and to consult your healthcare provider if something does not feel right.
