The aim of the present paper was to investigate the repercussions for a sibling of a premature birth, from the mother's perspective, during the baby's hospitalization in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Thirty-seven mothers were interviewed on the 15th day after delivery. They answered questionnaires on family demographic data, clinical information on the baby and the mother, as well as an interview about the experience of motherhood in the context of prematurity. This interview included questions regarding the baby's sibling. The answers were examined based on qualitative content analysis. The results revealed alterations in the sibling´s routine as a consequence of the mother's absence. The siblings' reactions and feelings included doubts, worries, jealousy, anxiety, but also satisfaction and curiosity. Visits to the premature baby were not allowed in some hospitals. There was evidence of the importance of caring for and attending to the needs of siblings during this period of the baby's hospitalization.
Siblings; Premature birth; Neonatal Intensive Care Unit