subject: Baby's Growth -- What You Need To Fully Understand [print this page] What a joy to watch your child grow and learn new things every single day. However do you wonder if your baby is growing at the standard rate, and ever wonder if his weight is what it should be. I don't know of a new parent that hasn't asked these same questions. Below you will find some facts about baby's growth that ought to help remove some of the mystery.
When your baby reaches his first birthday he will likely have tripled his weight. Your baby does a lot of growing that first year. However, many new parents do not understand that a newborn will lose as much as 10% of his body weight the very first week just after he is born, so don't be surprised when this happens. After that first week loss then your baby should begin gaining weight weekly. The common weight gain for a baby the first month is up to seven ounces a week. It's not uncommon for infants to gain 1 to 2 pounds monthly their first year.
A baby's weight and growth is measured by what percentile he's in. Many parents get all swept up in these stats. However they are only a guideline. Every baby grows differently and genetics also play a part where your baby will fall within the percentiles. Your doctor will see a lot of the baby the first year and he will let you know if there's anything to worry about.
Keep in mind that so long as your baby is eating healthy and gaining weight, then you should not be overly concerned with what percentile your child is in. Your doctor will let you know when there is something wrong or to be concerned about. You will see your doctor about once per month for the first six months of your baby's life, so he will be able to monitor your baby's growth very well.
Because both you and your baby will see so much of the doctor the first year it's important that you pick one that fits your needs. If you're a new parent with a pediatrician that you don't fell comfortable with, then make a switch. You do not want to keep switching doctors, but you do desire a doctor that knows both you and your baby and relates well to you. If you are still expecting your baby then choosing the best doctor for you baby needs to be priority.
Communication is essential when looking for a pediatrician. If you are choosing physician's see how well he listens to what you really are saying and how well he address your concerns. As previously stated you will be seeing your baby's doctor a great deal those first couple of years so having the ability to communicate well with each other is a must. You can learn a lot about the doctor by watching the way in which his staff interacts with other patients. Also take a brief list of questions for the doctor when you are interviewing. This should help you find out if you are like-minded on issues that are important to you and your baby's health.
Terry Cook is a writer for weeonebabygifts.com, carrying Wonderful baby gifts and Free Shipping, baby shopping does not get any much better than this. Wee One Baby Gifts has the best choice of baby girl gifts handpicked just for you.
Baby's Growth -- What You Need To Fully Understand
