1. What is Percent Weight Loss in Newborns?

Percent weight loss in newborns refers to the percentage of birth weight that a newborn loses in the first days after birth. 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:

• Birth weight — Newborn's weight at birth (lbs)
• Current weight — Newborn's current weight (lbs)

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 assess feeding adequacy. Normal newborns lose 5-7% of birth weight in first week. Loss >10% may require evaluation.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter birth weight and current weight in pounds. Both values must be positive numbers. Current weight should be less than birth weight for meaningful results.

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, regaining birth weight by 10-14 days.

Q2: When should I be concerned about weight loss?
A: If loss exceeds 7-10%, or if baby isn't regaining weight by 2 weeks, consult your pediatrician.

Q3: How often should newborns be weighed?
A: Typically at birth, 3-5 days old, and at 2 weeks. More frequent if concerns exist.

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

Q5: What causes excessive weight loss?
A: Possible causes include inadequate milk intake, feeding difficulties, or medical conditions.