Weight Loss and Newborns

Your newborn losing weight can be quite a concern for new parents. Espcially new moms, who everyone is asking "How much does she weigh?" right after your baby is born. But weight loss and newborns is very normal, and very common.

Almost every baby goes home from the hospital weighing less than when they were born. Usually they lose 5% to 10% in the first five days. This is nothing to be concerned about -- unless your doctor is concerned, then you should be too. Although I can completely relate that your concerns are valid, I am just trying to say that it is normal.

It seems that breastfed babies are more prone to weight loss initially, because they are only taking in small amounts of colostrum until your milk comes in.

Bottom line? Newborn weight loss is normal if it's 5% to 10%. Most newborns have stopped losing weight by the fifth day and are back to their birth weight by 14 days of age.

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