Newborn Check

Laurel Pediatric & Teen Medical Center

Pediatricians located in Bel Air, MD

Congratulations on your new baby (or babies)! As you prepare for this new arrival, there are many things you need to consider, and chief among them is good medical care right from the start. At Laurel Pediatric & Teen Medical Center, our providers perform valuable newborn checks for new parents in Harford County, MD, giving babies a healthy start in life. To learn more, call to schedule an appointment.

410-504-6406

Newborn Check Q & A

Why Do I Need a Newborn Check?

A newborn check is a great way to ensure that everything is going smoothly during the first week after delivery. You should book your appointment at Laurel Pediatric & Teen Medical Center 2-5 days after the birth of your child.

What Happens at a Newborn Check?

During this first all-important visit, one of our doctors will check the following:

Your baby’s weight, length, and head circumference
Your baby’s heart rate
The umbilical cord area
How your baby is feeding
Your baby’s urinary and bowel functions
Your baby’s sleep patterns

Our doctors spend some time checking your baby’s physical and mental development by ensuring that your baby can:

Focus on objects 8-12 inches away
Respond to sound
Move their arms and legs, and keep them in a flexed position
Lift their head
Grasp objects

We may also test your baby’s hearing and sight to make sure these important senses are free from problems.

Ultimately, this visit provides a great opportunity for you to discuss any concerns or questions you may have, or simply reaffirm that everything is on track. In fact, if this is your first child, be sure to write down your questions beforehand so you don’t forget anything while you’re with us.

How Often Should I See the Doctor After the Newborn Check?

Our doctors follow the schedule recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics for your child’s first two years of pediatric visits:

2-5 days old
1 month
2 months
4 months
6 months
9 months
12 months
15 months
18 months
24 months

These visits allow our doctors to closely monitor your baby’s development, making sure that important milestones are met. We also ensure that your child’s vaccinations are on schedule, which provides your baby with protection against potentially dangerous and contagious diseases.

To give your baby a healthy start in life, call Laurel Pediatric & Teen Medical Center to schedule a newborn check.

What we offer