Weight Gain Patterns

During the first 3-5 days after birth, a 5-7% weight loss is normal for an exclusively breastfed baby. Babies lose fluid and clear out the meconium in their gut; both of these factors contribute to weight loss. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, newborns who lose more than 7% of birth weight in the first 5 days of life should be evaluated for breastfeeding issues. It's always a good idea to have a routine weight check by day 5 either by your baby's pediatrician or lactation consultant to make sure your baby has begun regaining his/her birth weight. Breastfeeding issues should be addressed as soon as possible to ensure success at the breast. 

Exclusively breastfed babies should be at or above their birth weight by 10 days to 2 weeks. If your baby is sick or premature and has lost extra weight in the early days, it may take longer to regain birth weight. If baby does not regain birth weight by two weeks, breastfeeding should be evaluated.

If you're concerned about your baby's weight gain or just want to check your baby's weight, consider booking a weight-check with Rebecca.