How Much Weight Should a Newborn Put on in Two Weeks?
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Expected Weight Gain
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A newborn's weight is carefully monitored by both parents and pediatricians for indications of possible health problems. It is normal for a newborn to lose up to 10 percent of his body weight in the week following birth. As the infant adjusts to feeding, he should gain weight at a rate of one ounce per day. By the end of the first two weeks of life, a newborn should return to his original birth weight.
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Factors Which May Affect Weight Gain
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Several factors may contribute to deviations from the expected weight of a newborn at two weeks. A baby who has inherited a high metabolism from his parents may not gain weight as rapidly as an infant with a lower metabolism. Issues adjusting to the type of formula offered and difficulty learning to breastfeed may result in slower weight gain.
Bottom Line
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Slight fluctuations in a newborn's expected weight are generally not cause for concern. On TheBump.com, board certified pediatrician, Dr. Leigh Serra, says, "I start to worry if a newborn loses more than 10 percent of birth weight, isn't making at least three or four wet diapers per day, doesn't seem satisfied after feedings, or doesn't get back to birth weight by two weeks." Share any concerns with your child's pediatrician and continue to monitor her weight.
References
- Photo Credit newborn baby image by Diane Stamatelatos from Fotolia.com
