First Well-Baby Visit

During the first month, your baby will take a big trip to the pediatrician for his first extended visit! This well-baby visit and the many that follow let you and your pediatrician monitor your baby’s growth and health. This visit with your pediatrician is also a good opportunity for you to ask any child-rearing questions that may be on your mind—from feeding, bathing, sleeping, or skin-care matters to off-the-beaten-track questions like, “Can men get the postpartum blues?” (The answer is yes, by the way!)

What exactly will happen during the first well-baby visit? Here’s what the pediatrician will do:

• Weigh and measure your baby to verify healthy growth
• Check that the umbilical cord has fallen off and the belly button is healing well. If your baby is a boy and he was circumcised, the pediatrician will examine his penis, too
• Possibly give a hepatitis shot if your baby didn’t receive one at the hospital or at a previous office visit
• Address common health concerns, such as diaper rash or cradle cap
• Give some insight into your baby’s development, feeding, and sleeping

If Your Baby Isn't Sleeping

Sleep deprivation can be wearing and frustrating for you and your baby. Engage the pediatrician in a conversation about sleep if your baby is having difficulty sleeping. The pediatrician may decide that it’s a good time to start a sleep routine for your baby. A sleep routine may be just the thing to get your baby’s sleep pattern on track.