1. What is Baby Weight Loss Percentage?

The Baby Weight Loss Percentage calculates how much weight a newborn has lost compared to their birth weight. It's an important metric for assessing newborn health and feeding adequacy in the early days after birth.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the weight loss percentage formula:

Where:

• \( birth\_weight \) — Baby's weight at birth (kg)
• \( current\_weight \) — Baby's current weight (kg)

Explanation: The formula calculates what percentage of the original birth weight has been lost.

3. Importance of Monitoring Weight Loss

Details: Newborns typically lose 5-7% of their birth weight in the first few days. Losses greater than 10% may indicate feeding problems and require medical evaluation.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter birth weight and current weight in kilograms. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will show the percentage of weight lost.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is normal weight loss for a newborn?
A: Most newborns lose 5-7% of birth weight in first 3-5 days, then regain by 10-14 days. Losses >10% warrant evaluation.

Q2: When should I be concerned about weight loss?
A: Contact your pediatrician if loss exceeds 7% in first 72 hours, 10% at any time, or if baby isn't regaining by day 5.

Q3: How often should newborns be weighed?
A: Typically at birth, 24-48 hours after birth, at first pediatric visit (3-5 days), and at 2 weeks. More if concerns exist.

Q4: Does weight loss differ for breastfed vs formula-fed babies?
A: Breastfed babies may lose slightly more initially but patterns should be similar. Any excessive loss needs assessment.

Q5: What affects newborn weight loss?
A: Fluid loss, feeding frequency/method, maternal medications, birth interventions, and infant health conditions can all affect weight.