Essential Pediatric Questions for New Parents: Baby Weight and Feeding Concerns

Could you please provide the specific questions you have about the baby?

My baby was born weighing only 2100 grams, which is classified as low birth weight.
Currently, my baby is 2 months and 20 days old.
I would like to ask the doctor:
1.
At 2 months and 3 days, my baby weighed 5.5 kilograms.
Is this too light?
2.
How should I calculate the milk intake? Does the timing start from 6 AM to midnight, or is there a specific number of feedings that should be followed?
3.
My baby's daily milk intake is between 470cc and 680cc (6 to 7 times a day, every 3 to 3.5 hours).
Is this amount too little?
4.
My baby sleeps from around midnight until after 6 AM without waking for a feeding, but I notice that the diaper is not very wet in the morning.
Should I consult a doctor about this? (During the day, the diaper is usually wet every 3 to 4 hours.)
5.
My baby occasionally spits up, and it can be quite forceful, but this happens infrequently.
Is this a concern?
6.
Is it true that newborns do not need to drink much water? Sometimes my baby seems to want water instead of milk when it's time to feed.
Should I let him drink water?
7.
Is there a connection between gas and hot weather? (The doctor mentioned that my baby's gas is due to the heat.) I am currently giving the medication prescribed by the doctor.
How will I know when my baby has improved?
Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions.
I truly appreciate it and wish you all the best.

Xiao Yu Er, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/04/10

Dr. Lin Wenxian reply Pediatrics

Dear Mother of Little Fish,
Hello! I would like to address your questions in order:
1.
Based on your baby's current weight, I can say that they are growing well and have reached the expected standards, so there is no need for you to worry too much.
2.
The amount of milk consumed is measured by the total intake over a 24-hour period.
If we start counting from 6 AM, it would be the total amount consumed until the next day at 6 AM.
3.
Given your baby's weight, this amount of milk is sufficient.
Remember to feed according to your baby's needs; a healthy baby will adjust their intake based on their growth rate.
4.
Your baby should have at least 4 to 6 wet diapers throughout the day (24 hours).
5.
From what you have described, your baby's weight gain is good and their health is also satisfactory, so occasional spit-up does not require too much concern.
6.
Newborns do not need to drink much water; feeding should be based on the baby's needs.
7.
The baby's gas may not be significantly related to the hot weather.
A distended abdomen does not necessarily indicate gas.
As long as your baby is healthy, developing well, and there are no hard lumps in the abdomen, a larger belly can simply be observed.
The Tainan City Hospital wishes you and your little one good health and all the best!

Reply Date: 2005/04/10

More Info

As a new parent, it’s completely normal to have concerns about your baby’s weight and feeding habits, especially when your child was born with a low birth weight. Let’s address your questions one by one, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of your baby’s nutritional needs and health.

1. Weight Concerns: At 2 months and 20 days, your baby’s weight of 5.5 kg (approximately 12.1 lbs) is within the normal range for a baby who was born at a low birth weight. The growth trajectory is more important than the weight itself. Babies typically double their birth weight by around 4 to 6 months of age. If your baby was born at 2100 grams (about 4.6 lbs), reaching 5.5 kg is a positive sign of growth. Regular check-ups with your pediatrician will help monitor this growth.

2. Calculating Milk Intake: The general guideline for formula-fed infants is to provide about 100-150 ml of formula per kilogram of body weight per day. For your baby weighing 5.5 kg, this translates to approximately 550-825 ml of formula daily. The feeding schedule can vary, but many parents find it helpful to establish a routine. You can start counting from the first feeding of the day, which could be around 6 AM, and continue until the last feeding at night.
3. Daily Milk Volume: If your baby is consuming between 470 cc and 680 cc per day, this is on the lower end of the recommended intake. However, every baby is different, and some may naturally consume less. If your baby is gaining weight steadily and seems satisfied after feedings, this may be adequate. If you have concerns about your baby’s intake, consult your pediatrician.

4. Urine Output: It’s concerning if your baby’s diaper is not wet enough, especially after a long stretch of sleep. Generally, a well-hydrated baby should have at least 6-8 wet diapers a day. If your baby is sleeping from midnight to 6 AM without wetting the diaper, it might be worth discussing with your pediatrician. Dehydration can be a concern, especially if your baby is not feeding well.

5. Spitting Up: Occasional spitting up, especially if it’s not frequent or excessive, is common in infants. If your baby is gaining weight and seems comfortable, it may not be a cause for concern. However, if the spitting up is projectile or accompanied by distress, it’s advisable to consult your doctor.

6. Water Intake: Newborns typically do not need additional water, as they get all the hydration they need from breast milk or formula. If your baby is refusing formula but wanting water, it’s important to encourage formula feeding, as it provides essential nutrients. If your baby is consistently refusing formula, this should be discussed with your pediatrician.

7. Gas and Weather: Gas in infants can be influenced by various factors, including diet and environmental conditions. If your doctor has prescribed medication for gas, monitor your baby’s symptoms. Improvement can be indicated by reduced fussiness and less frequent gas pains.
In summary, it’s essential to focus on your baby’s overall growth and development rather than just weight. Regular pediatric check-ups will help ensure that your baby is on the right track. If you have ongoing concerns about feeding, weight, or any other health issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice. Your attentiveness as a parent is crucial for your baby’s health and well-being.

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