Birth Weight
Birth weight is the first weight of your baby, taken just after being born. A low birth weight means that the baby is less than 2.5 kg. A high birth weight means that the baby is more than 4.0 kg.
A baby with a low birth weight can be born too small, too early (premature), or both. This can happen for many different reasons. They include:
- Health problems in the pregnant parent.
- Taking certain medicines during pregnancy.
- Substance use during pregnancy.
- Infections during pregnancy
- Being pregnant with multiple babies.
- Problems with the placenta, the organ that brings oxygen and nutrients to the baby.
- Having small parents.
- Genetic conditions in the baby
- Birth defects.
Babies with low birth weight may be more at risk of certain health problems. They include immediate problems, such as:
- Breathing problems
- Infections
- Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
- Jaundice.
- Trouble keeping warm
There is also a higher risk of longer-term problems, including:
- Delayed motor and social development.
- Learning disabilities.
- Certain health conditions as an adult, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity.
Causes of high birth weight can include:
- Having big parents.
- Diabetes in the pregnant parent.
- Certain genetic conditions.
- Too much weight gain during pregnancy.
High birth weight can be a concern because it can make delivery of the baby difficult and raise the risk of birth injuries. The baby is at higher risk of problems with:
- Blood sugar.
- Breathing problems.
- Jaundice.
You may be able to prevent some birth weight problems by:
- Getting regular checkups during pregnancy.
- Getting the right amount of nutrition and calories during pregnancy.
- Controlling your blood sugar if you have diabetes.
- Avoiding substance use during pregnancy.
References
Birth Weight (medlineplus) (https://medlineplus.gov/birthweight.html)
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