Babies need to see the doctor or nurse for a “well-baby visit” 6 times before their first birthday.
A well-baby visit (also called a checkup) is when you take your baby to the doctor to make sure they’re healthy and developing normally. This is different from visits when your baby is sick or injured.
At a well-baby visit, the doctor or nurse can help catch any problems early, when they may be easier to treat. You’ll also have a chance to ask any questions you have about caring for your baby.
Learn what to expect so you can make the most of each well-baby visit.
Babies need to see the doctor or nurse at least 6 times before their first birthday. Your baby is growing and changing quickly, so regular visits are important.
For most babies, the first well-baby visit is when they are 3 to 5 days old. This is usually 2 to 3 days after coming home from the hospital. After that first visit, babies need to see the doctor or nurse when they’re:
If you’re worried about your baby’s health, don’t wait until the next scheduled visit — call the doctor or nurse right away.
Your baby’s doctor or nurse can help you understand how your baby is developing and learning to do new things — like smile or turn their head to hear your voice. These are sometimes called “developmental milestones.”
It’s important to remember that these milestones happen over a range of ages — some babies reach these milestones early, and others will reach them later. Every baby grows and develops differently. Talk to your baby’s doctor or nurse if you have any questions about how your baby is growing and developing.
Before each visit, the doctor or nurse will ask you to fill out a questionnaire about which developmental milestones your baby has reached since their previous visit. Be sure to complete this questionnaire to prepare for each visit to your doctor or nurse. The questionnaire will also help you understand what your baby is already doing and what they are working on.
During each visit, the doctor or nurse will ask what new things your baby is learning to do.
Below are some of the milestones your baby is expected to reach by each visit to their doctor or nurse. Check out these resources to help you help your baby reach their developmental milestones:
See a complete list of milestones for kids age 9 months.
Every baby develops a little differently. But if you’re worried about your baby’s growth and development, talk to their doctor or nurse. Remember that you know your child best, so don’t hesitate to share your concerns with your baby’s doctor or nurse.
Take these steps to help you and your baby get the most out of well-baby visits.
Take any medical records you have to the appointment, including a record of vaccines (shots) your baby has received and results from newborn screenings. Read about newborn screenings.
Make a list of any important changes in your baby’s life since the last doctor’s visit, like:
Use this tool to keep track of your baby’s family health history. This information will help their doctor or nurse know if your baby is at risk for certain health problems.
Before you visit the doctor, talk with others who care for your child, like a grandparent, daycare provider, or babysitter. They may be able to help you think of questions to ask the doctor or nurse.
Under the Affordable Care Act, insurance plans must cover well-baby visits. Depending on your insurance plan, you may be able to get well-baby visits at no cost to you. Check with your insurance company to find out more.
Your child may also qualify for free or low-cost health insurance through Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Learn about coverage options for your family.
If you don’t have insurance, you may still be able to get free or low-cost well-baby visits. Find a health center near you and ask about well-baby visits.
To learn more, check out these resources:
Before the well-baby visit, write down a few questions you have. Each well-baby visit is a great time to ask the doctor or nurse any questions about:
Take notes so you can remember the answers later.
During each well-baby visit, the doctor or nurse will ask you about your baby and do a physical exam. The doctor or nurse will then update your baby’s medical history with any new information.
The doctor or nurse may ask about:
Your answers to questions like these will help the doctor or nurse make sure your baby is healthy, safe, and developing normally. Be honest, even if you’re worried you’re doing something wrong — the doctor or nurse is there to help you.
Especially during the first few well-baby visits, the doctor or nurse will ask the baby’s caregivers — like a mom, dad, grandparent, or guardian — how they are feeling. For mothers who gave birth, the doctor or nurse will check for signs of maternal depression (also known as postpartum depression). If you are a new parent or caregiver, tell your doctor if you are feeling anxious, sad, agitated, or hopeless.
Learn more about postpartum depression and how you can get support.
To check your baby’s body, the doctor or nurse will:
Learn more about your baby’s health care:
