Baby’s First Steps
First Three Doctor Visits for a Baby: Why They Matter
Navigating Early Pediatric Visits and Medical Attention Needed by Newly Born Babies.
The experience of being a new parent is transformative. The first few months of a child’s life can be exhilarating and happy, but they can also be stressful for parents, full of unknowns and adjustments.
Families should be aware that their infant’s pediatrician is available to assist not only the infant, though that should always come first, but also the parents and even older siblings.
A pediatrician is consulted for three crucial appointments in the first month of the child’s life, beginning nearly immediately after birth.
1. The Initial Appointment: Shortly After Birth
The basis for the newborn’s care is established at the first visit to the pediatrician, which should happen three to five days after the baby is born.
Pediatrician Dr. Joy Elion of the University of Chicago Medicine stresses the value of establishing a relationship between infants and their primary care physician early on.
In the course of this first meeting:
- The pediatrician enumerates medical history for the child and parents.
- Specifics like weight loss, difficulties with breastfeeding, and jaundice symptoms are evaluated.
- Either urgent problems or possible health issues are resolved.
For instance, jaundice might result in long-term consequences if it is not detected and treated promptly.
Since raising a child is a difficult task, having a support person go with the birthing parent and the child to appointments is essential. Most importantly, both parents—the father and mother.
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2. Follow-Up Visit: 1–2 Weeks Following Delivery
If no urgent problems arise, including jaundice or difficulties breastfeeding that come up in the first appointment, it is advised to return around a week later for a two-week checkup centered on the baby’s progress if no urgent concerns, such as jaundice or difficulty chestfeeding, are brought up during the initial session.
Throughout this visit:
- The pediatrician verifies that the infant has returned to its birth weight.
- To make sure the umbilical chord has fallen off, it is checked.
- Parents are able to inquire about their child’s progress and obtain support in doing so.
Parents should take advantage of this second visit to ask questions and discuss any concerns they may have.
3. Third Visit: A Month Following Delivery
Approximately a month after birth, the third visit occurs. Throughout this visit:
- The pediatrician keeps an eye on the infant’s development and growth.
- Emerging concerns are swiftly addressed. Parents receive instruction on feeding, sleep patterns, and other critical elements of newborn care.
- These early consultations give parents important tools and assistance while laying the foundation for a good start in life.
- Recall that your pediatrician is there to support and advise you during this amazing adventure called parenthood.
