Your baby’s first doctor's visit

The thought of bringing your new baby to the doctor’s office for the first time can make you a bit anxious. But, since you probably already spent ages looking for the right GP, you shouldn’t worry about it.

You and your little bundle of joy will probably visit the doctor a lot more in the first year than any other time, so trust your gut that you chose the right one and prepare yourself for many trips to come.

Although the first visit depends on the doctor you choose, in general, you can expect the following things for your newborns first visit:

• The doctor will take a head measurement to make sure everything is in good working order.
• He or she will weigh your baby and measure their length.
• They will observe your little one’s vision, hearing and reflexes.
• The doctor will question you about your baby’s general health and ask how they are sleeping, eating etc.
• He or she will take a full physical exam to check if your newborn has any abnormalities of the body.
• They will also check to see if your baby’s organs are functioning.
• The doctor will let you know what to expect of your newborn in the next couple of months.
• He or she will speak about how your home environment can have an effect on your baby (both positively and negatively).
• If your baby’s doctor has the results of your baby’s screening test, then he or she may discuss the results with you.
• Lastly, they will speak to you about your baby’s next doctor’s visit.

To prepare yourself for your newborn’s first visit, consider doing these things:

1. Jot down a few questions you’d like to ask the doctor so you can make the most of the visit.
2. Make sure your little one is dressed in comfortable clothing and pack all your baby essentials with you i.e. read-made bottle, soothers, nappies etc.
3. Lastly, you can take the stress away by bringing someone with you. It’s always good to have a helping hand for things like this.