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Newborn physical examination

• All parents are offered a thorough physical examination for their baby within 72 hours of giving birth. The examination includes screening tests to find out if your baby has any problems with their eyes, heart, hips and, in boys, testicles (testes).
• You will be offered a second examination for your baby between 6-8 weeks. This will be usually be done at your GP practice
• Newborn hearing screening is offered within the first 2 weeks after birth
• The results will be recorded in your child’s red book

Your baby’s height and weight

• Steady weight gain is one of the signs that your baby is healthy and feeding well.
• It’s normal for babies to lose some weight in the first few days after birth.
• Your baby will be weighed during their first 2 weeks to make sure they’re regaining their birthweight. Most babies are at, or above, their birthweight by 3 weeks.
• A midwife or health visitor will support you if your baby loses a large amount of weight or does not regain their birthweight by 3 weeks.

Vaccinations

Vaccinations are important to protect our children against ill health. They prevent millions of deaths worldwide every year. Your baby will be offered their first routine vaccination at 8 weeks old.