Baby too small?
August 30, 2010 | 20,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Susanne Plotz
Dear experts,
12 days ago, my baby, a boy, was born via caesarean section in the 38th week of pregnancy. He weighed 2,880 grams, was 47 cm tall, and had a head circumference of 34.5 cm. All examinations so far have been okay. However, I am now feeling very uncertain because everyone keeps mentioning how small and delicate he is. Is my baby really too small or perhaps even stunted in growth? I myself am of average height (1.70m), but relatively slim (pre-pregnancy weight was 57 kg). I have never smoked or consumed alcohol, but I am a vegetarian. Should I continue to worry or seek out a specialist? Thank you for your response.
Dear Questioner,
first of all, congratulations on the new arrival!!! I believe I can reassure you. The ratio of weight to height for your son is completely within the normal range. He may be small and delicate, but what's important is that the proportions, meaning the ratio of body length to weight, are correct. And in this case, they are. During the examinations, the doctors also fill out so-called percentiles. Weight and height are marked on a scale, and you can then see how the child compares to the norm. Since all examinations were fine, there should not have been any abnormalities. Based on my experience, the weight and height are completely fine. You are also slim, the child was born in the 38th week, so technically a bit earlier than the due date (which would have been in the 40th week).
Of course, it's important to continue monitoring weight and height, but your doctor will pay attention to this during the check-ups, and with the help of the percentiles, which will continue to be filled out, you can see very nicely if the development is within the normal range.
I hope I could reassure you a bit. Please don't let yourself be unsettled and enjoy the time with your baby!
I wish you all the best and send you warm regards,
Susanne Plotz
