1. What is Newborn Weight Loss Percentage?

The newborn weight loss percentage calculates how much weight a baby has lost since birth compared to their birth weight. This is 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 following formula:

Where:

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

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

3. Importance of Monitoring Weight Loss

Details: Monitoring weight loss helps identify potential feeding problems. While some weight loss is normal (typically 5-7% in first few days), excessive loss (>10%) may indicate issues requiring intervention.

4. Using the Calculator

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

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: When should I be concerned about weight loss?
A: Consult a pediatrician if loss exceeds 10%, continues beyond 5 days, or if baby shows signs of dehydration.

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

Q4: Does weight loss differ for breastfed vs formula-fed babies?
A: Breastfed babies may lose slightly more initially but patterns are generally similar when feeding is established.

Q5: What affects newborn weight loss?
A: Factors include feeding method, maternal fluids during labor, timing of first feed, and infant health status.