A guide to caring for your newborn Checkups and doctor visits
After discharge from the hospital, your baby will need to see your pediatrician in the next 24-72 hours, depending on whether there are any unresolved issues. The most common unresolved newborn issue is jaundice (see Jaundice).
Your health care provider will inform you of each planned, well-baby visit. During a well-baby visit, your provider will do a whole body, head-to-toe exam. This will help ensure your baby is healthy, growing and developing normally. These visits are important because they can help
your provider detect problems early so that your baby can get special care if needed. Well-baby visits are also a good time to ask questions, receive guidance and talk with your provider about any concerns you have.
Typical first-year well-baby visit schedule
- First-week visit: 2-5 days old
- 1 month old
- 2 months old
- 4 months old
- 6 months old
- 9 months old
- 12 months old
Sick child visits
If your baby is sick or if you have concerns about your baby’s health, do not wait for the next well-baby visit. Call your provider who will let you know if you need to bring your baby in for a visit.
