Baby born 'the size of a pen' nursed to healthy weight

The 500-gram girl was born in Buryatia republican perinatal centre in October.

Her mother gave birth to her on 23rd week of pregnancy; the baby size of a pen was nursed by doctors for 4 months. 

In February she was discharged from the perinatal centre weighing 2.642 grams (5.82 pounds). 

Buryatia's ministry of healthcare said her survival was ‘a miracle’. 

Baby born 'the size of a pen' nursed to healthy weight. Pictures: Ministry of Health Buryatia

The baby was so fragile some staff were ‘afraid to hold her in their hands’.

Oleg Mitkinov, chief neonatologist in Buryatia said: 'I think it is possible to say that our 'goddaughter' is celebrating her second birthday.

'She was born in October on the 23rd week of pregnancy. Now, after 4 months, she has 'grown up' and gained weight. 

'The baby will spend a couple of months in the pulmonology department before she is allowed to get back home with her mum, where her dad and siblings are waiting for her.

'We are happy she has no serious issues.'

The little girl whose name wasn't revealed will be closely monitored by medics until at least till the age of 3.

Her mother was next to the baby whenever it was possible, doctors said.  

165 babies under one kilogram were born in Buryatia in 2019.