Some time in the first 24 hours after her birth, your baby will get a thorough medical check. This should be done in front of both of you so that the doctor can not only assure herself that all is well but demonstrate and explain that it is. If you are not able to go to the nursery, the examination should be done at your bedside.
If your partner has to leave the hospital, which is likely if he has to look after an older child, it is worth telling the senior nurse or midwife that he would like to be present when his baby is examined, and asking approximately when the doctor is expected. These are some of the checks that will probably be carried out.
Weighing and measuring
Your baby will probably be weighed again (left). Average weight is 3.4kg (lib 8oz); 95% of newborns weigh between 2.5kg and 4.5kg (5lb 8oz and 10lb). Her length will be measured. Average length is 50cm (20in); 95% of newborns measure between 45cm and 55cm (18in and 22in). Her head circumference will be measured (above). Average is about 35cm (14in); normal range is 33cm to 31cm (13in to 14'Ain).
Checking internal organs
By feeling your baby's tummy, the doctor will check that the internal organs, such as her liver, kidneys and spleen, are the right size and correctly positioned. She will also check for normal pulses in the groins.
Checking the spine and anus
Holding the baby face down along her forearm, the doctor checks that all your baby's vertebrae are in place and that her back passage is open.
Checking the eyes and palate
A finger to suck calms your baby during an inspection of her eyes, and then it checks that there is no cleft in her palate.
Although this first medical check-up should be an excellent opportunity to ask questions, it does not always turn out that way. Doctors are sometimes in a hurry. New babies sometimes howl throughout. And new parents are often not yet capable of constructing a coherent question, let alone taking in the answer.
Questions and concerns tend to surface later. As long as you are in the hospital, there will always be someone to ask; don't hesitate. In your first week or so at home, though, even daily visits from a midwife, and a telephone number you can call in between, may not seem enough. There are still a lot of hours to get through and so many things about a new baby that can seem worrying.
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