Weight Gain and Newborns
Most healthy, full-term babies lose between 5 and 10 percent of their birth weight in the first days after birth. Early weight loss happens because babies are born with extra fluid that gets eliminated after birth. This weight loss is normal and not a concern unless a baby loses more than 10 percent of his birth weight. Newborn usually loses some body weight initially which is almost regained at 10-12 days of age. Thereafter a normal full term newborn gains body weight at around 25-30 grams/day.
How can I tell if my newborn is gaining enough weight?
Most parents don't have a scale suitable for weighing a baby at home, but luckily counting the number of your baby's dirty diapers is another good way to tell that your baby is doing fine:
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Wet diapers: In the first five days, your newborn may wet only a few diapers each day. After that, expect at least four, but as many as eight, wet diapers daily.
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Poopy diapers: In the first few days, some babies may poop only once daily. After that, expect your baby to poop at least twice a day. After the first week, your baby will likely poop 10 or more times daily until the end of the first month.
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