1. What is Infant Birth Weight Loss?

Infant birth weight loss refers to the percentage of weight an infant loses in the first days after birth compared to their birth weight. It's a common phenomenon but excessive loss may indicate feeding problems or other health issues.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formula:

Where:

• \( \text{Birth Weight} \) — Infant's weight at birth in kilograms
• \( \text{Current Weight} \) — Infant's current weight in kilograms

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

3. Importance of Monitoring Weight Loss

Details: Monitoring weight loss helps identify potential feeding problems, dehydration, or other health issues. Most newborns lose 5-7% of their birth weight in the first few days, with losses >10% warranting 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 since birth.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: When should I be concerned about weight loss?
A: Consult a healthcare provider if loss exceeds 7-10% or if the baby isn't regaining weight by 2 weeks.

Q3: How often should I weigh my newborn?
A: Daily weights aren't necessary for healthy babies. Follow your pediatrician's recommendation, typically at doctor visits.

Q4: Does breastfeeding affect weight loss?
A: Breastfed babies may lose slightly more weight initially but typically regain it within 2-3 weeks.

Q5: What factors can affect newborn weight loss?
A: Factors include feeding method, maternal fluids during delivery, and infant's elimination patterns.