Newborn and 1st time moms

Becoming a mother is a life-changing event, and having a newborn to care for can make you feel overwhelmed with questions. The pediatric team at Greenleaf Family Center in Atlanta, Georgia is here to help — whether you’re a first-time mom or not. From a hospital visit on the day your baby is born to your first in-office checkup and beyond, the experts answer your questions and help you give your baby a healthy start to life. Make an appointment with the pediatric care team online or by phone today to learn more.

Newborns & First Time Moms Q & A

What medical care happens right after my baby is born?

The expert pediatric team at Greenleaf Family Center sees newborn babies in the hospital on the day they’re born. Your baby’s first checkup is an important event where your pediatrician does a variety of measurements and tests.

While you and your baby are still in the hospital, expect your doctor to:

  • Measure baby’s weight and length
  • Measure baby’s head circumference
  • Perform a physical exam 
  • Perform a hearing test
  • Get any necessary blood tests
  • Test baby’s oxygen levels
  • Administer baby’s first immunizations

If you have any questions or concerns, ask your pediatrician. The team can help you learn how to breastfeed properly and answer your questions about caring for your new baby.

How often does my newborn need a checkup?

After you and your baby go home from the hospital, you come to visit the Greenleaf Family Center office for a checkup about a week after birth. Your pediatrician checks your baby’s growth, observes their development and behavior, and does a physical exam. If any necessary testing wasn’t performed at the hospital, the doctor does it at this appointment. 

After your baby’s first week of life, plan to return for checkups at the following intervals for the first year:

  • One month
  • Two months
  • Four months
  • Six months
  • Nine months
  • 12 months

At each appointment, your pediatrician measures your baby’s growth and administers vaccinations. In addition to these regular checkups, visit the doctor as soon as possible if your baby has a fever, looks sick, isn’t eating, or isn’t peeing or pooping.

Why are regular well-checkups important for newborns and first-time moms?

Regular appointments give your pediatrician the opportunity to monitor your baby’s growth and development, but it’s also a good time to make sure that you’re adjusting well to life as a parent.

It’s common for first-time moms to have questions about caring for their babies, and talking to the experts can give you the information you need. If you’re facing issues, from problems with breastfeeding to getting your baby to sleep, your pediatrician answers them and helps you find a solution. 

Find top-tier, comprehensive care for newborns and first-time moms at Greenleaf Family Center. Learn more by booking an appointment online or by phone today.