Navigating Your Baby's First Checkup

If you’ve just had a little one, White Oak Pediatric Associates in Raleigh, NC is the pediatrician to have on your care team.

Your Baby’s First Appointment

Having a baby comes with a great deal of joy, but also a lot of stress and many tasks to take care of. One of these tasks is your little one’s first check-up with their pediatrician, which can seem stressful when you don’t know what to expect. Below, our team at White Oak Pediatric Associates in Raleigh, NC gives a glimpse into this appointment to help.

Information Gathering

You’ll be asked to provide several pieces of information on paper and through discussions. This information relates to everything from family medical history to how well your baby is sleeping and how many diapers they wet and soil each day.

Measurements

One of the first steps in a baby’s first appointment is gathering their weight, length, and head circumference. This information is recorded, compared to future measurements, and used to ensure proper growth. The heart rate and other vital signs are taken and recorded.

Physical Examination

The doctor will perform a comprehensive, hands-on, physical exam of the following:

• Your baby’s head for soft spots, as these spots mustn’t close up too fast
• Your baby’s hips for signs of joint issues
• The umbilical cord to ensure the area is healing properly
• Their finger, toe, and Moro reflexes to ensure there are no signs of neurological trouble

Discussion and Recommendations

The doctor will discuss any findings with you during and after the exam. You’ll be provided with guidance for your baby’s care at this age, including anything from help with feeding to sleeping. If there is anything that causes concern, the doctor will discuss any treatment needed.

You’ll also be provided with the opportunity to express any concerns and ask any questions. The doctor is there to help ensure you can provide the best care possible for your little one, so take advantage of this opportunity and don’t be afraid to voice any concerns or insecurities.

Vaccinations

Generally, babies are provided the necessary vaccinations before they leave the hospital. If they did not for any reason, the vaccinations will typically be provided at the first appointment.

How to Prepare

It’s always wise to take extra clothing and several extra diapers. Additionally, to get accurate measurements and a thorough exam, your baby will be in its diaper much of the time. Please bring a blanket to keep them comfortable and warm.

Looking for a pediatrician in Raleigh, NC? Call (919) 787-0266 to schedule an appointment with our team at White Oak Pediatric Associates.