Bringing your little one home is an exhilarating experience, filled with joy and a whirlwind of emotions. Whether you’re a first-time parent or have welcomed a new addition before, you’re bound to have a mountain of questions. This is where your baby’s first well-baby visit comes in, typically scheduled within a week after birth. During this appointment, your pediatrician will help answer your questions while performing a thorough examination of your newborn. Here’s a closer look at what you can anticipate during this significant first check-up.
The Physical Examination
If your baby was seen by a different pediatrician while in the hospital, be sure to take along any discharge paperwork you received. This documentation will be added to your child’s medical records. Remember, it’s normal for newborns to lose weight before they start gaining it back. Your baby may still be below their birth weight during this initial visit. Exclusively breastfed infants usually take a little longer to regain their birth weight, but by around two weeks, most babies are back to their original weight.
When it comes to measuring your baby’s length, keep in mind that this can be a bit tricky. While your baby’s length might not have changed, it could be longer or shorter due to the imprecision of measuring newborns. It’s an important part of tracking your baby’s growth, so don’t hesitate to ask about the measurements taken during this visit.
Developmental Milestones
At this early stage, developmental milestones are often broad and general. Your pediatrician will look for certain reflexes that newborns typically exhibit, such as grasping and rooting reflexes. If you have questions about what to expect in terms of your baby’s development, don’t hesitate to ask.
Vaccinations
During this visit, your baby will likely receive their first set of vaccinations. These shots are crucial for your baby’s health, protecting them from various diseases. Your doctor will discuss the immunization schedule and what you should monitor post-vaccination.
Questions to Ask Your Doctor
As a new parent, you may have numerous questions swirling in your mind. Here are some topics you might want to discuss with the pediatrician:
- What signs of normal feeding should I look for?
- How can I tell if my baby is getting enough breast milk or formula?
- What is the best way to soothe a fussy baby?
- Are there any concerns I should be aware of regarding my baby’s health?
Make sure to take notes during your appointment, so you have a reference for later.