Weight Loss in Infants
Weight loss in infants within three to four days after birth is common and not a matter of concern. But since weight gain is a parameter for good health, babies must be monitored properly. The average weight loss in the days immediately after birth is 5 to 10 percent of the baby's weight. If it drops by more than 10 percent, the baby requires medical assistance.
Weekly checkups will show the growth curve formed by measuring the baby's weight, length and head circumference. The growth curve is the pertinent factor to evaluate the baby's growth pattern.
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Signs That Weight Loss is Above Normal
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According to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, parents should be concerned if:
The baby's growth is less half an ounce (15 g) at the end of the fifth day.
The baby does not regain his weight loss in the third week after birth.
The baby does not gain 1 lb. (454 g) per month, in the initial four months of birth.
The proportional rate of growth declines (weight, length or head circumference).
Loss of Body Fluids After Birth
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The birth weight of the baby fluctuates after birth. One of the common reason for a decrease in the baby weight is due to the loss of excess body fluid stored in the body. When the baby is born, these fluids pass and the body becomes lighter.
Excess fluids are more likely to have gathered in the body of the baby, if the mother was on fluid therapy or IVF treatment.
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To Combat Labor Stress
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Infants are born with extra weight to fight the stress of labor pain. This extra weight sheds after birth.
Extra Fat Reserves
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Infants carry extra weight so that after birth, fat reserves help to feed their bodies. Since they take time to adapt to breastfeeding or formula, these food reserves help them out. These also melt away and account for normal short-term weight loss.
Steps to Increase the Body Weight of Infants
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A lactation consultant may need to get involved to check the lactation quality and milk production of the mother and evaluate whether the infant is learning the techniques to suck the breast milk. A lactation consultant can also help determine whether supplements are needed and offer tips to enhance breast milk feedings.
Babies should be breastfed whenever they hint at wanting food.
Strict adherence to feeding schedules may lead to gaps in the baby's food requirements. This causes the baby to be hungry and, in turn, weigh less.
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