Many parents worry when they notice a slight drop in their baby’s weight after birth. But according to pediatric experts, this initial weight loss is completely normal—and expected.
Why Do Babies Lose Weight After Birth?
“Babies are born with some extra fluid, so it’s normal for them to drop a few ounces in the first few days of life,” explains Dr. Preeti Sharma, a leading Pediatrician at Ankura Hospital.
A healthy newborn typically loses about 7% to 10% of their birth weight within the first week. However, they usually regain it by two weeks of age, provided feeding is going well.
What’s Considered a Normal Birth Weight?
Dr. Preeti emphasizes that there’s no one-size-fits-all number. “Newborns come in a range of healthy sizes,” she says. Most babies born between 37 and 40 weeks weigh between 5 pounds 8 ounces (2,500 grams) and 8 pounds 13 ounces (4,000 grams).
Babies weighing slightly less or more than this average can still be completely healthy. However, doctors may monitor them a bit more closely just to be cautious.
🍼 What to Monitor in Your Newborn
1. Feeding Frequency
Breastfed babies: Should feed 8 or more times within 24 hours.
Formula-fed babies: Typically eat every 3 to 4 hours.
2. Feeding Amount
Breastfeeding: Babies usually nurse for at least 10 minutes and appear content afterward.
Formula feeding: Babies often consume 3 to 4 ounces (90–120 ml) per feeding.
3. Diaper Output
Day 1: At least 1 poopy diaper (dark, tarry stool).
By Day 3–4: Stool becomes soft, loose, and greenish-yellow.
Breastfed babies tend to have more frequent bowel movements, while formula-fed babies may have fewer.
🤰 Factors That Influence Newborn Weight
Dr. Preeti outlines several key contributors to a baby’s birth weight:
Genetics: Babies often reflect the size and build of their parents.
Birth Order: Firstborns tend to be slightly smaller than their younger siblings. Multiples (like twins or triplets) are often smaller due to limited space in the womb.
Mother’s Health: Pre-existing conditions (like high blood pressure or heart disease) can affect fetal growth. Conversely, gestational diabetes may lead to a larger baby. Smoking, alcohol use, and poor maternal health can also lead to low birth weight.
Nutrition: A mother’s nutrition during pregnancy—and while breastfeeding—has a direct impact on a baby’s development and weight.
Final Word
If your newborn is feeding well, producing enough diapers, and slowly gaining weight by the second week, there’s usually nothing to worry about. Still, regular checkups with a pediatrician ensure that your baby is on a healthy growth trajectory.
If you have concerns, always consult your pediatrician—they’re there to support both you and your baby every step of the way.