Will I be a Good Mother to my Newborn?

It is natural to wonder if you you will be a good mother to your newborn baby. You want to make sure you are doing everything you can to take care of them, and that your baby is happy and healthy. The good news is you can keep track of your baby's health while getting answers to all your "new mom" questions at each of your child's newborn visits.

Depending on how long your baby is in the hospital after their birth, their first visit the their pediatrician typically takes place within three to five days of their birth. You are sure to be more confident about your mothering skills as you progress through the stages of your child's first year.

Here's what to expect:

First and Second Week Visits

Your pediatrician is going to check your newborn at the first and second week. The first week includes a weight check, Jaundice check, metabolic screening and newborn vaccines. Your pediatrician also addresses any feeding issues that may have occurred.

During this appointment, your pediatrician is also going to take a detailed history of your pregnancy, labor, the birth and your baby's hospital stay. You are also given any vaccines you may need to ensure everyone is healthy.

The second visit is similar to the first visit, as your baby needs a weight check, physical exam and possible vaccines. If you still need any vaccines, you are given them during this appointment. You want to ensure everyone in the house is healthy enough for your newborn.

Remember, this is your chance to ask questions or address concerns.

One to Six Month Visits

Your baby is seen for visits when they are one month, two months, four months and six months. Just like the second week visit, their one month visit includes a weight check, physical exam and necessary vaccines. Your baby may not receive a vaccine during every appointment, but this depends on if there is still a vaccine they need by a certain visit.

The two, four and six month visits are different from the previous newborn visits. Your pediatrician still performs a physical exam, but they also check your baby's growth and development. You may have more questions now that your baby is growing, and your pediatrician can let you know if they are where they need to be in terms of development.

Nine Month Visit

The nine-month visit still includes a physical exam, and your pediatrician still checks their growth and development. Your baby is receives a hemoglobin at this visit, which is also known as a finger stick.

Twelve Month Visit

Your baby is growing into a toddler and developing their own personality, which your pediatrician may happily point out during this appointment. The twelve-month visit includes a physical exam, and their growth and development is checked as normal. The appointment may include a TB skin test and vaccines, but this is only if they are needed.

Newborn visits are not only important for your baby's health, growth and development, but it also gives you a peace of mind to know you are doing the best you can for your little one.