Baby Not Gaining Enough Weight? 3 Doctor-Recommended Actions for Parents

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Did you know that newborns need to gain weight for their overall growth and development? Parents should be proactive and vigilant regarding their baby's health, monitor their weight gain, and report any signs or symptoms. Remember to act promptly concerning your baby's health.

Dr. Sanjay Wazir, Medical Director (NCR) - Neonatology and Pediatrics at Motherhood Hospitals in Gurgaon, stated, “Weight gain in newborns is a crucial indicator of general health, offering important insights into a baby's feeding habits, growth, and development. It is a well-known fact that the baby will gradually gain weight as days progress. Nevertheless, slow or insufficient growth may lead to concerns about feeding or underlying health issues that require timely intervention from an expert. Doing so can assist him/her in thriving and reaching developmental milestones. ”

Ideal weight gain for newborns

Dr. Sanjay Wazir provided a general guideline regarding what is viewed as healthy weight development:

Initial days (0–7 days): It is common for infants to lose 5–10% of their birth weight. Most recover this weight by 10–14 days of age.

0–3 months: Infants typically gain 150–200 grams each week (approximately 25–30 grams each day).

3–6 months: The anticipated weight gain is roughly 140–180 grams weekly.

6–12 months: Infants gain about 85–140 grams each week.

Dr. Sanjay Wazir stated, “By the time your infant reaches 5 months, they generally double their birth weight, and by 12 months, they triple it. Newborns might not gain weight due to feeding challenges, insufficient milk supply, latch problems, health issues, or digestive concerns. Inadequate weight gain can result in poor growth, diminished immunity, and developmental delays if not addressed. For parents, this situation can be stressful and emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, guilt, frustration, agitation, hopelessness, and uncertainty about whether their child is receiving sufficient nutrition. ”

Newborn Weight Gain Myths Busted: What Social Media Won’t Tell You.

The parents might face challenges due to the misinformation disseminated on social media. Dr. Sanjay Wazir mentioned, “This may also result in numerous medical appointments and an increased requirement for feeding support, making prompt intervention essential for the well-being of both the baby and the parents’ peace of mind. Parents should not become overwhelmed but rather seek immediate assistance to ensure the baby is thriving. It will also be crucial for parents to communicate with the doctor and learn how to monitor the baby’s health to determine if the baby is well and fit. Do not panic; aim to resolve any uncertainties with the doctor without hesitation. ”

Here’s what to do

Dr. Sanjay Wazir recommended parents to implement the following strategies to promote healthy weight gain in infants

Track weight regularly: Routine visits with a pediatrician are essential to confirm your baby is growing at a suitable pace. You should document the baby’s weight and check it every 15 days. Track the diapers—At least 6 wet diapers and 3–4 bowel movements daily can signify the baby is feeding sufficiently. This will provide you with insight into the baby’s health condition.

Speak to a lactation expert: If weight gain is sluggish, a knowledgeable lactation consultant can assist new mothers in adjusting their breastfeeding methods and milk supply.

Ensure frequent feeding: Newborns should be breastfed every 2-3 hours to ensure sufficient intake. This will keep the baby satisfied. Hunger signals include rooting, sucking on hands, and irritability. Recognize these signs presented by the babies. If weight gain continues to be slow, the expert can investigate any underlying issues and suggest appropriate treatment and management strategies.

Dr. Sanjay Wazir concluded, “If your baby isn’t gaining sufficient weight, appears overly sleepy, refuses to feed, or isn’t urinating regularly, contact your pediatrician without delay. Every baby is distinctive. Always consult your pediatrician to understand what’s best for your child’s individual requirements. ”

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