PIRI and the Infant Clinic are dedicated in their quest to make a difference to the lives of premature babies and their families. Over the years we have engaged in a number of projects supporting this vulnerable group. Last year PIRI was awarded a four-year research grant from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) to fund the PremieStart research program.

How will PremieStart make a difference?

Mother's of babies born less than 30 weeks gestational age are now being given the opportunity to be a part of PremieStart, PIRIs most recent research into the brain development of premature babies. Currently, up to 50% of Victorian preterm infants suffer from one or more developmental difficulties in early childhood. It is hoped that the PremieStart program will make a difference to this at-risk population by reducing stress in the early months after birth - a time when infants are exposed to necessary but painful hospital procedures and are often unable to experience normal levels of physical interaction with their mothers. PremieStart focuses on improving mother-baby interactions through an intensive 8-session training program, held with the mother while the babies are still in the NICU.

Recruitment for this randomised control trial started earlier this year at both the Mercy Hospital for Women and the Royal Women's Hospital. For further information contact Dr Carol Newnham or Leanne Trinder on 9496 4496.