Pediatric Care North, an affiliate of Children's Mercy, is here to help your family if you are expecting a baby and need a pediatrician. Having a newborn at home is an equally exciting and hectic time in your life. Your newborn doctor in Kansas City, MO, helps keep your baby healthy and happy with regular office visits. Read what you can expect at your baby's first doctor visit and contact us today for an appointment.

When Should My Newborn See Their Doctor?

Your newborn should have their first well-baby visit a few days after being home from the hospital. After your newborn's first appointment, they will see their doctor at 1 month, 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, and 9 months. After a year visits can be less frequent, but they will still have an annual checkup.

What Can I Expect?

During the first visit with your newborn doctor in Kansas City, MO, we check your baby's vital signs and screen their vision and hearing. We track their growth and development, and your doctor will follow a guide published by the American Academy of Pediatrics for immunizations into adolescence.

Come to the appointment with any questions you have, and be honest and thorough with the doctor. We can review guidelines for nursing, bathing, and safety tips for having a newborn in the house. It is normal if it takes some time to adjust to a healthy nursing routine with your baby. We can recommend lactation consultants if you are having trouble nursing efficiently.

When Do I Call My Newborn Doctor?

For a newborn, any fever above 100.4 degrees is cause for alarm and you should call your doctor. Also if the baby stops eating, develops a rash, if the skin or whites of their eyes turn yellow, or if they can't be consoled.

You should also call us for support if you are feeling depressed or overwhelmed. It is normal to struggle with the stress and exhaustion of having a newborn and we can connect you with support groups and mental health resources if needed.

See a Newborn Doctor Now

Call Pediatric Care North to make an appointment with a newborn doctor in Kansas City, MO. Contact us at (816) 587-3200 so we can help you take the best care of your newest little family member.