Pampers has created the world's smallest ever nappy for premature babies

Every year as many as 4,500 babies in Ireland are born prematurely – and thankfully, due to great advances in medical science, survival rates of these great tiny fighters are increasing.

Up until now, even the smallest sized nappies are often far too big for babies born prematurely, meaning nurses and parents are forced to cut and fold nappies to size, which can cause both discomfort and, according to neo-natal nurse and developmental specialist Cherry Bond, impede optimal development.

But now Pampers has developed its smallest nappy yet, the Pampers Preemie Protection Size P3. Designed specifically to meet the needs of the tiniest little fighters, the Size P3 nappy is three sizes smaller than a regular newborn nappy and is suitable for babies weighing as little as 1.8lb (800g).

According to Pampers, the new Preemie Protection nappies are designed to minimise disruption to help with sleep, positioning, and medical care for premature babies.

Ian Morley, Commercial Director at P&G explains:

“It took us three years and over 10,000 hours of research to develop the new P3 nappy, which is designed to provide comfort and protection for the smallest babies. As a parent of two preemies myself, I am extremely proud that we have created a nappy which meets the unique needs of premature babies and those that care for them. Regular newborn nappies currently used by Neonatal nurses have a wide core that can push baby’s legs apart, not allowing baby’s hips and legs to rest comfortably, which 99% of nurses agree disrupts healthy growth and development."

Bond agrees.

“Premature babies have very unique requirements, which need to be valued and considered in every element of their care," she explains. "The right nappy is no exception."

As part of their commitment to the happy, healthy development of every baby in Ireland, including those born prematurely, Pampers has donated 300,000 Size P3 nappies to Irish Maternity hospitals’, giving every premature baby born access to free nappies.

Thsi is what Gail de Loughry from the Premature Babies Charity had to say:

“Caring for a premature baby can be so daunting given their size and fragility. The new range of Pampers nappies for premature babies will make a real difference to babies and those who care for them. The more a family is actively involved in caring for their premature baby the better it is for their development. The nappy change is one opportunity for parents to take the lead and these new nappies designed for premature babies that are fit for purpose will make this so much easier“

Pampers is partnering with Irish Premature Babies, Ireland’s leading charity for babies born premature or sick, to help support the littlest fighters in Neonatal Units. Pampers Preemie Protection nappies are available in sizes P1 (less than 5lb/ 2.7kg) and P2 (less than 4lb/ 1.8kg) and P3 (less than 1.8lb/ 0.8kg). The nappies are not available to buy as Pampers is donating them to hospitals.