Your Baby’s Four-Month Checkup: What to Expect

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At your baby’s four-month checkup, the pediatrician will perform a thorough physical examination, similar to the one conducted during the previous visit. Your baby will be weighed and measured, and the doctor will discuss her growth progress in relation to the growth chart. This discussion will include percentiles; however, do not worry if the percentile is different from what you anticipated. The key aspect is the consistency of growth between appointments.

Feeding and Sleeping Routines

Following the physical assessment, your pediatrician will inquire about your baby’s feeding and sleeping routines, as well as the approximate number of wet and dirty diapers she produces daily. It’s also important to discuss her bowel movements, including their frequency, color, and consistency. Common topics during this visit may include your baby’s crying patterns, oral thrush, teething, diaper rash, introducing solids, reflux, sleeping positions, and the significance of tummy time. Additionally, you may cover concerns such as constipation, guidance for handling a cold, the sounds your baby is making, and her motor skill development.

Questions and Immunizations

At this stage, the pediatrician will address any questions or concerns you may have and outline what to expect in the coming month. Immunizations will also be administered during this visit. Your baby will receive the second dose of the Pneumococcal vaccine (PCV), DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis), the Haemophilus Influenza Type B Conjugate vaccine (Hib), and the Polio vaccine, as well as a second round of the Rotavirus vaccine (RV), which is given orally. Typically, the nurse administers the vaccinations at the end of the appointment.

Additional Resources

For additional insights on parenting and fertility, visit this blog post or check out Make a Mom for expert advice. Moreover, for comprehensive information on pregnancy and home insemination, consider visiting the Fertility Center at Johns Hopkins.

Conclusion

In summary, your baby’s four-month checkup is an opportunity to assess her growth and development, address any concerns, and ensure she receives necessary vaccinations. Remember, consistent growth is what matters most, and the pediatrician is there to guide you through this exciting stage.