Routine newborn checkups are essential for monitoring your baby’s growth and development during their first year of life. At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, our team of experienced pediatricians, including a neonatal care doctor in Atlanta, is dedicated to providing comprehensive, compassionate care for your newborn. These regular visits ensure that your baby is healthy, developing appropriately, and receiving necessary vaccinations to protect against common childhood illnesses.
The Importance of Routine Newborn Checkups
Routine checkups during the first year of life are crucial for identifying potential health concerns early and addressing them promptly. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends at least eight well-baby visits by the time your child reaches 12 months of age. During these visits, our pediatricians will monitor key aspects of your baby’s development, including:
- Growth tracking through height, weight, and head circumference measurements
- Developmental milestones such as motor skills, social interactions, and communication abilities
- Physical examinations to assess general health and check for potential conditions
- Vaccination schedules to protect against preventable diseases like hepatitis B, rotavirus, and polio
Dr. Sells is fantastic! We have been with her since our baby since her release from the NICU! Dr. Sells is very knowledgeable and patient! She has helped our baby love her visits to the doctor, even requesting to go see “Dr. Sells” without a scheduled appointment. Thank you for the special gifts (books) at each scheduled doctor’s visit! Perfect touch!
What to Expect During Routine Newborn Checkups
During your newborn’s routine checkup, our pediatricians will perform a thorough physical examination and address any concerns you may have about your baby’s health. Here’s what you can expect at these appointments:
Growth Measurements
We track your baby’s weight, length, and head circumference to ensure they are growing at a healthy rate.
Developmental Screening
Our pediatricians will evaluate your baby’s motor skills, reflexes, and sensory responses to make sure they are hitting appropriate developmental milestones.
Physical Examination
Your baby’s heart, lungs, abdomen, and other systems will be examined to ensure they are functioning properly.
Vaccinations
We follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) vaccination schedule to protect your baby from serious illnesses. According to the CDC, vaccines prevent more than 2.5 million deaths each year globally.
Feeding and Nutrition Guidance
Whether breastfeeding or formula feeding, we’ll provide guidance on how much and how often your baby should eat, and address any feeding concerns you may have.
Parental Guidance
We offer advice on sleep patterns, safe sleep practices, and general infant care to help you navigate the challenges of new parenthood.
Benefits of Regular Checkups
Early Detection of Health Issues
Regular checkups allow our pediatricians to detect and treat any potential health concerns before they become more serious.
Monitoring Growth and Development
By tracking your baby’s progress, we can ensure they are meeting milestones and address any delays.
Building a Relationship
Regular visits help establish a strong relationship between your family and our healthcare team, fostering open communication and trust.
When to Schedule Newborn Checkups
According to the AAP, the recommended schedule for newborn checkups is:
- 3-5 days after birth
- 1 month
- 2 months
- 4 months
- 6 months
- 9 months
- 12 months
These regular visits allow us to track your baby’s health closely and provide the necessary support as they grow.
Frequently Asked Questions About Newborn Checkups
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Most appointments take 20-30 minutes, but this can vary depending on the baby’s needs.
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Vaccinations follow the CDC’s recommended schedule and typically include hepatitis B, DTaP, rotavirus, polio, and others based on your baby’s age.
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Absolutely. We are here to support you and answer any questions regarding feeding, nutrition, and overall newborn care.
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If your baby is feeling unwell, it’s important to keep the appointment so we can assess the illness and provide appropriate care.
Schedule Your Newborn’s Checkup in Atlanta Today
Routine newborn checkups are essential to ensuring your baby’s health and development. At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, we are here to support you through every stage of your baby’s first year. Contact us at (404) 446-4726 to schedule your newborn’s checkup at one of our three convenient locations in Atlanta.