The first few weeks and months after having a baby brings up a range of feelings and emotions. From exhaustion and elation to contentment and worry, post-partum ups and downs are common. In the time period known as the 4th trimester, the three months after delivery are full of changes, transitions, and uncertainty. It is an adjustment period for both mom and baby.
Knowing what to expect of your baby during these first few months can help make the transition easier. Learn more about what to expect during the 4th trimester and what to look out for with this breakdown of your newborn’s growth milestones.
Your newborn's growth: What to expect during the 4th trimester
WHO growth charts for newborns
Understanding height and weight percentiles: These numbers simply tell you where, out of 100 children your child’s age, your baby falls. If your newborn weighs in at the 50th percentile, this simply means there are 50 infants who weigh more than your child and 50 who weigh less.
Don’t get too caught up your newborns growth chart numbers
New mom Danielle P. would stress herself out with worry over her daughter’s growth chart results each month. “She’s always been on the smaller side so every time the doctor handed me that little card, I felt like I was doing something wrong,” she told Mom.com. “It wasn’t until recently that I learned that she was being compared to babies her age who are breastfed. I always formula-fed her and didn’t realize there was a difference in expected weight.”
All babies grow and gain weight differently so it’s important not to get caught up on the numbers. If you have concerns about where your newborn falls on the growth chart, especially during the 4th trimester, consult your pediatrician. If all is well, however, you don’t necessarily have to wait for your baby’s next well visit. Try this handy growth percentile calculator between office visits to see how your newborn measures up.
