1. What Is Birth Weight Loss Percentage?

The birth weight loss percentage measures how much weight a newborn has lost compared to their birth weight. It's an important indicator of a baby's health and feeding adequacy in the first days of life.

2. How The Calculation Works

The calculator uses the following formula:

Where:

• \( \text{Birth Weight} \) — The baby's weight at birth (kg)
• \( \text{Current Weight} \) — The baby's current weight (kg)

Explanation: The formula calculates what percentage of the original birth weight has been lost. Values are typically between 5-10% in healthy newborns.

3. Importance Of Monitoring Weight Loss

Details: Monitoring weight loss helps identify feeding problems, dehydration, or other health issues. Excessive weight loss (>10%) may require medical evaluation and intervention.

4. Using The Calculator

Tips: Enter both weights in kilograms (kg). For accuracy, weigh the baby at the same time of day using the same scale. Both values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's considered normal weight loss after birth?
A: Most newborns lose 5-7% of birth weight in first 3-5 days, typically regaining it by 10-14 days.

Q2: When should I be concerned about weight loss?
A: If loss exceeds 10% of birth weight or continues beyond 5 days, consult a healthcare provider.

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).

Q4: Does breastfeeding affect weight loss?
A: Breastfed babies may lose slightly more weight initially but should follow similar patterns.

Q5: What factors influence weight loss percentage?
A: Delivery method, feeding method, gestational age, and maternal fluids during labor can all affect weight loss.