What you can expect at your baby's 3-to-5-day visit

Your baby isn't quite a week old – but it's already time for your first checkup.

After so many months of waiting, it’s hard to believe your baby is here!

Your baby’s first checkup with the doctor is generally at 3 to 5 days after birth. While that might seem very soon, it's an important visit. The change from being inside the womb to outside is a big one for both your baby and you. Your doctor wants to see both of you to be sure you're doing well.

Things your doctor will do at the visit:

• Check your baby's weight, length, and head size. Your doctor wants to see how your baby’s weight has changed since birth and since leaving the hospital.
• Check your baby from head to toe, making sure everything is normal and healthy.
• Look for signs of jaundice, or a yellow color to your baby's skin and eyes. Mild jaundice is normal. Severe jaundice can lead to problems.
• Ask a lot of questions about how you are feeding your baby.  This may include whether you are breast-feeding or bottle-feeding, how much and how often and how it is going.
• Ask how often your baby is having bowel movements and wet diapers.
• Ask where your baby is sleeping. Review safe sleep practices.
• Ask how you are doing! As wonderful as it is to welcome a new baby, it can be a tiring and emotional time. The doctor wants to know how you're feeling and whether you have enough support and help during this time.
• Recommend the first dose of the hepatitis B vaccine, if it hasn't already been given, and review the upcoming vaccine schedule.
• Give you a chance to ask questions.

Things to talk about with your doctor:

Remember, your doctor is there to help you and your baby. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

• Ask any questions or and raise any concerns about feeding your baby. Don't be embarrassed to ask for help. Lots of new moms need support with breastfeeding.
• Discuss how you are feeling. It’s normal to feel tired, sad, frustrated, worried or even angry. This is a big life change. All new parents need support. Some may need more support and help than others and there’s nothing wrong with that. Your doctor can help you.
• You may want to write down questions before your appointment so you can remember them.