Parents of newborn babies are often concerned about how much weight their baby is gaining. Is the baby gaining enough weight or too much? Knowing the answers to these questions is crucial in maintaining a healthy baby weight.

First Week

In the first week of life, babies will lose a few pounds. Within two weeks, babies should regain this weight loss. Parents should not be surprised if babies have lost a few pounds when they go to their first check up after they are brought home. At their second visit, they should have gained this weight back. Talk to your pediatrician if your baby has not gained this weight.

First Months

Babies who are breastfed gain four to seven ounces per week the first month of life, and then one to two pounds per month for the first six months. Breastfed and formula-fed babies tend to gain weight at the same rate for the first few months. Between four and six months, breastfed babies tend to gain weight faster than formula fed. After six months this is reversed.

Rapid Growth

By four months of age, babies should have doubled their birth weight. The most rapid weight of growth is between two weeks and six months. After six months, weight gain should slow down.

Healthy Growth

Weight gain per week is not the only indicator of healthy growth in babies. Babies who are happy and feeding regularly may be gaining enough weight. Babies who are fussy may be hungry and not gaining enough weight. Also, babies who are having enough wet diapers per day may be gaining enough weight per week.

Concerns

If you are concerned about how much weight your baby is gaining or not gaining, you should talk to your pediatrician. All babies are different, and discussing your baby with your pediatrician is the best way to know if your baby is gaining enough or too much weight. Listen to your doctor's advice and your baby's feeding cues to know how much to feed your baby.

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