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Weight Loss Percentage Formula:
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Newborn weight loss percentage calculates how much weight a newborn has lost compared to their birth weight. It's a crucial metric for assessing neonatal health and feeding adequacy in the first days of life.
The calculator uses the weight loss percentage formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula calculates the percentage of weight lost relative to the original birth weight, providing a standardized measure for comparison.
Details: Monitoring weight loss in newborns is essential for identifying potential feeding issues, dehydration, or other health concerns. Most newborns lose 5-10% of their birth weight in the first week before starting to regain weight.
Tips: Enter birth weight and current weight in grams. Ensure accurate measurements for reliable results. Weight loss exceeding 10% may warrant medical consultation.
Q1: What is normal weight loss for a newborn?
A: Most newborns lose 5-10% of their birth weight in the first week, then typically regain it by 2 weeks of age.
Q2: When should I be concerned about weight loss?
A: Consult a healthcare provider if weight loss exceeds 10% of birth weight or if the baby isn't starting to regain weight by day 5-7.
Q3: How often should I weigh my newborn?
A: In the first week, daily weights are helpful. After establishing good weight gain, weekly weights are usually sufficient unless advised otherwise by your pediatrician.
Q4: Does breastfeeding affect weight loss differently?
A: Breastfed babies may lose slightly more weight initially but should follow similar patterns of weight loss and regain as formula-fed infants.
Q5: What factors contribute to excessive weight loss?
A: Inadequate milk intake, feeding difficulties, dehydration, or underlying medical conditions can contribute to excessive weight loss in newborns.