Visiting With The Pediatrician – What To Expect

In the first year of your babyÂ’s life, you will be visiting your pediatrician about every other month, for well check ups and immunizations HereÂ’s a rundown of how those visits go, and approximately how often youÂ’ll need to visit
Two week visit
Some doctors schedule a visit earlier than two weeks, but most pediatricians begin at the two week mark Your babyÂ’s weight, length and head circumference will be measured, and you can expect this at every well baby checkup during this first year They will also do a general exam and check the babyÂ’s fontanel One thing the doctor particularly interested in at this checkup is babyÂ’s weight gain Your baby will typically lose some weight right after birth, so at this checkup the doctor will want to ensure that baby is gaining back the lost weight They will also ask about eating habits, how often the baby is producing wet and dirty diapers, and about how the baby is sleeping
One month visit
This visit will be largely the same as the previous visit, focusing on babyÂ’s development, and on yours and babyÂ’s adjustment at home
Two month visit
Baby will be checked again, and immunizations will usually start at the two month mark The first dose of the DPT – (diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis) vaccine is usually administered at this visit For more information about when immunizations are administered, see the chapter on this subject
From this point on, you can expect well baby visits every other month, until your baby is a year old There will routine physical exams, and questions about your babyÂ’s development For the first year of life, the baby will receive immunizations at nearly every visit These visits are not only important opportunities for the doctor to check on your babyÂ’s progress, but are also opportunities for you to ask questions and gain reassurance about how things are going, so take advantage For instance, if you are concerned that your child has not reached a development milestone, these visits are a good time to discuss this with your doctor Your doctor will also be looking for these development milestones, and will alert you if there is an issue ItÂ’s helpful to write your questions down as you think of them, so you donÂ’t forget
In addition, be sure to discuss your doctorÂ’s preferences on calling when your child is sick For example, is there a 24 hour on-call nursing service for questions? Or, is the on call only for emergencies Your relationship with your pediatrician is critical to maintaining your childÂ’s health and your peace of mind DonÂ’t hesitate to ask questions, and call on your doctor as often as needed to ensure your comfort

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