Newborn baby weight gain: Whats normal, Whats exceptional, and When to be concerned.
How much weight will my newborn gain?
Bringing a newborn into the world is an incredible experience for parents. As they embark on this exciting journey of parenthood, one of the vital aspects of newborns to monitor is weight gain. During the first two years of life, a baby’s weight undergoes significant changes on a monthly basis, which is crucial for their growth and development. In this blog post, we will explore what parents can expect in terms of their newborns weight gain during the first two years, what is considered normal, and when to seek medical advice if something seems abnormal.
Baby weight gain in the first two years
Babies are weighed immediately after they are born, this is known as the birth weight. What's surprising for most parents is that their baby’s weight drops immediately after birth which is largely due to fluid loss. This is normal. Baby’s normally regain their birth weight within the first week of life, and this is a crucial sign doctors keep an eye on. In the first six months of life, baby’s experience rapid weight gain. On average, newborns gain 5-7 ounces per week or 1-2 pounds per month, and by the end of month 6 it's possible that their birth rate may have doubled.
From month 6-12, babies continue to grow steadily but not at the same rate as the first six months. During this period, babies typically gain around 3-5 ounces per week or a half pound per month. During the second year of life, the rate of weight gain varies among children. On average, toddlers gain about 4-6 pounds a year.
What is considered normal?
Individual Differences: Every baby is unique, and weight gain can vary significantly from one child to another. Genetics, feeding habits, and overall health can influence the rate of weight gain.
Breastfeeding vs Formula Feeding: It's essential to understand that breastfed and formula-fed babies may have different weight gain patterns. Breastfed babies tend to gain weight more rapidly in the first few months and then gradually slow down. On the other hand, formula-fed babies may have a more consistent weight gain pattern over time.
Growth spurts: Babies experience growth spurts during the first two years of life, which may lead to temporary accelerated weight gain. These spurts are normal and typically coincide with developmental milestones
Monitoring growth charts: Pediatricians use growth charts to track a baby’s growth over time. These charts provide percentiles that show how a baby’s weight compares to other children of the same age. Staying within a healthy percentile range is generally a positive sign.
When to seek medical advice
Slow and Stagnant Growth: If a baby consistently shows minimal or no weight gain over several weeks or months, it may be a cause for concern. Slow or stagnant growth can be an indication of various underlying issues, and parents should seek medical advice promptly.
Rapid or Excessive Weight Gain: While some weight gain is expected, rapid or excessive weight gain could be a sign of overfeeding or certain medical conditions. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any potential concerns.
Failure to Thrive: If a baby’s weight drops significantly on the growth chart or falls below the 5th percentile, it may be a sign of “failure to thrive”. This condition requires immediate attention from a healthcare provider.
Conclusion
Understanding newborn baby weight gain is an integral part of parenting in the early years. The first two years of life are a period of rapid growth and development, and monitoring a baby’s weight on a monthly basis can provide valuable insights into their overall health. Remember that each baby is unique, and individual growth patterns may vary. If you ever have concerns about your baby’s weight gain, don't hesitate to consult your pediatrician. With proper care, attention, and medical guidance, you can ensure your little one is on a healthy and thriving path in their early years of life.
Here’s a link to the CDC’s Baby Growth Chart: https://www.cdc.gov/growthcharts/data/set1clinical/set1color.pdf