Well-baby exams are an important way to check on your baby’s growth and development. These visits also offer you an opportunity to develop a relationship with your child’s pediatrician. The pediatrician might recommend your first well-baby exam to be scheduled for five days after birth. Additional exams will be scheduled every few weeks or months for the first year of your child’s life. The following are some of the things you should expect to be on the agenda during a well-baby exam.
Your baby’s measurements
The well-baby exam will likely begin with measurements. You will need to undress your baby so they can be accurately weighed on a scale. Your child will also be placed on a flat surface to measure their length and their head circumference. These measurements will be placed on a growth chart to determine your child’s growth curve. This practice is done to determine if your baby is growing normally.
Head-to-toe physical exam
You should expect your pediatrician to conduct a thorough physical exam during the visit. The doctor will inspect your child’s head, ears, eyes, mouth, skin, heart, lungs, abdomen, legs, and genitalia. The doctor will check the soft spots on your baby’s head as well to ensure they are not abnormal. The pediatrician will then check for fluid or infection in your baby’s ears.
The mouth examination is another area of importance. Your pediatrician will look inside your child’s mouth to check for signs of oral thrush. As your baby grows, the pediatrician may ask if they are drooling or chewing more than usual. These are typically signs of teething. The doctor will also listen to your baby’s heart and lungs to make sure everything is clear. Finally, your pediatrician will inspect your baby’s abdomen and genitalia for lumps, tenderness, or signs of infection.
Your baby’s development
Your pediatrician will discuss several things with you related to your baby’s development at the well-baby exam. Be prepared to answer questions about your baby’s motor skills and development. The doctor may ask about whether or not your child can roll over, sit with support, or pull themselves into a standing position. These questions will help your pediatrician gauge whether or not your baby is developing at a relatively normal pace.
Professional pediatrics in Amarillo, Texas
Well-baby exams are a great opportunity to ask questions about anything that may be worrying you. If you are a new parent, it might be hard to tell what is normal for your child and what is not. Frequent well-baby exams will give you peace of mind as your child grows and develops.
Dr. John Young and his team are committed to providing the best experience for you and your child. Call our office at (806) 354-0404 ext. 3330 to schedule an appointment with us today. You can also Contact Us by email or visit our office in person at 1500 S. Coulter St. Suite #3 in Amarillo, Texas to learn more about our services.
