Well-Baby Checkups
Well-baby checkups are important times for you and your baby. They allow your pediatrician to examine your baby and be sure he is growing and developing normally. Immunizations are also provided. These checkups also give you time to discuss your worries and woes with someone who is trained to help you. Write down your questions before the appointment.
Your baby’s pediatrician will help you with questions about your baby’s nutrition, growth and development, as well as how to provide routine care and stimulation to nurture a healthy, happy, loving relationship between you and your newborn. This time with your doctor is important to you and your baby. Take your time and make sure you understand every aspect of what your doctor tells you about your baby’s care.
Newborn Screenings: Before discharge from the hospital, your newborn baby had special screenings for several diseases and conditions, including PKU, thyroid function and hearing impairment. The test results will be sent to your pediatrician’s office.
Immunizations: Immunizations, some started soon after birth, are the best defense against many dangerous childhood diseases. Here is a list of recommended vaccines your child’s pediatrician will provide on a schedule recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Keep track of your child’s immunizations to be sure your child is protected.
DTaP - A vaccine that combines immunizations against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (whooping cough).
IPV - The vaccine against polio, a serious crippling disease.
Hib - The vaccine against hemophilus influenza type b, the bacteria that causes serious illness such as a type of meningitis.
Hep B - The vaccine that protects against the hepatitis B virus, which may cause serious liver disease.
Pneumococcal conjugate - The vaccine that guards against infections that cause bacterial meningitis, pneumonia and bloodstream infections, and may offer some protection against ear infections.
Rotavirus - The oral vaccine that guards against the common intestinal virus.
MMR - A single vaccine that combines measles, mumps, and rubella (German measles) vaccines.
Varicella - The vaccine to protect against the chicken pox virus.
Hep A - The vaccine that protects against the hepatitis A virus.
Tdap - The tetanus and diphtheria vaccines combined with a pertussis booster given to older children and throughout life.
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to substitute or replace the professional medical advice you receive from your child's physician. The content provided on this page is for informational purposes only, and was not designed to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Please consult your child's physician with any questions or concerns you may have regarding a medical condition.
Reviewed on: 6/2024