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Who is a Neonatologist?

Neonatologists (نیونٹولوجسٹ) are medical doctors who specialize in issues pertaining to infants, especially the premature babies and those having underdeveloped organs.

These experts also offer consultation to parents, especially the mothers, before birth, when in case of multiple births and diagnosis of congenital problems.

When should you see a Neonatologist?

Pregnant mothers should visit neonatology expert when their OB-GYN finds some issue with the baby prior to birth. Moreover, pregnant with multiple babies should also get neonatologist (نیونٹولوجسٹ) on board, as there is higher risk of problems with multiple births.

Furthermore, one should also request an expert from neonatology department either in the delivery room or the ward, so that they can evaluate the baby for any problems at birth.

Similarly, those with premature babies also need the help of a neonatologist, for treatment and follow-up care.

Women facing high-risk pregnancy should also visit neonatologists. Moreover, they are also point of contact when there are childbirth complications, for example, pressing of the umbilical cord on the baby, or when the baby’s position is not safe.

Babies with congenital disabilities, weak immune system, or any other condition making their survival difficult also need help from the neonatologist.

What are Neonatologist’s main areas of concern?

Neonatologists are concerned with the wellbeing of a newborn baby. They oversee the babies who are transferred to NICU (neonatal intensive care unit). This is most often the case when the baby is a preemie, has complicated infection, hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, chorioamnionitis –a condition remarked by bacterial infection in the membranes of the body --, and respiratory distress.

In the NICU, neonatology team ensures that babies are getting the right care, and are having their nutritional needs met.

Since premature babies suffer from hoard of problems, like feeding issues, breathing problems, increased susceptibility to infections etc., they are overseen by neonatologists in the NICU or the specialized baby nursery.

Neonatologists (نیونٹولوجسٹ) are also required to evaluate the baby when born, in order to ascertain the need for intensive care.

These doctors also play a pivotal role in the wellbeing of the babies, when the deliveries, especially those conducted at home, do not go well. Moreover, they also care for the babies who develop infections after birth. Sepsis, if not treated well in time, can also be fatal.

They are especially concerned with dispensing care to the high-risk babies. Moreover, they also offer treatment to the babies born with birth defects. Neonatologists are also responsible for managing newborns experiencing life-threatening conditions.  

Neonatologists also work closely with OB-GYN, maternal-fetal medicine physicians and pediatricians for the wellbeing of the baby.

What are the most common neonatal issues in Pakistan?

Maternal and infant health is a sadly neglected area in Pakistan. Women in remote areas do not have access to proper medical care, and have to resort to mid-wives, who do not even have proper training.

In case of distress to the baby or any other danger to the health, aid well within time is not always possible.

Hence, Pakistan has the worst infant mortality rate in the region; there are 42 deaths per 1000 live births. Even more unfortunate is the fact that most cases are preventable, if women get due care.

Moreover, since maternal health is sorely neglected, underweight babies are born, leading to complications with the infants.

Similarly, due lack of quality medical equipment, it is hard for the doctors and staff to ascertain the proper due date for mothers. The situation is compounded by illiteracy and lack of knowledge amongst pregnant women, who also are not aware of their conception date. This has led to high number of induced labors and premature births at Lady Reading Hospital.

According to Healthy Newborn Network, following are the major causes of neonatal deaths in Pakistan:

How to become a Neonatologist in Pakistan?

To become a neonatologist (نیونٹولوجسٹ), you first must complete your M.B.B.S and then house-job. You then have to complete 4 years training in Pediatrics and pass the relevant FCPS exams.

Then, you need enter a specialization program for to become a neonatologist. Most programs last for 2 years. After successful completion of training and passing the exams, you can get accredited by College of Physicians and Surgeons, and practice as a neonatologist.

What are Neonatologists called in Pakistan?

Neonatologists are also known as:

• Pediatrician
• Bachoun ka doctor
• نیونٹولوجسٹ۔