1 Month 2 Months 3 Months 4 Months 5 Months 6 Months 7 Months 8 Months 9 Months Birth 1 Month 2 Months 3 Months 4 Months 5 Months 6 Months 7 Months 8 Months 9 Months 10 Months 11 Months 12 Months 13 thru 18 Months 19 thru 24 Months

Should I Call the Doctor?

It's natural to worry when your baby doesn't feel good, and most pediatricians encourage parents to call any time they're unsure. But before you pick up the phone, take a few minutes to prepare so you can give the doctor the information he or she will need in order to give you proper medical advice.

  • Take your baby's temperature. If she has a fever, write down the temperature and the time you checked it.
  • Make a note of medications the baby is taking, including prescriptions, over-the-counter products and home remedies.
  • Have the baby's immunization records handy.
  • Remember to tell the doctor if the baby has any chronic conditions such as asthma or allergies, or past problems like ear infections.
  • Write down your pharmacy phone number.
  • Have a paper and pencil ready so you can write down the doctor's instructions.

You probably won't need more than recommendations and reassurance for simple ailments such as colds, coughs, mild diarrhea and sleep problems. The following symptoms may indicate something more serious, so don't hesitate to call if your baby has:

  • Vomiting or diarrhea that lasts more than a few hours
  • Fever and vomiting at the same time
  • A rectal temperature of 100.4°F or higher if she's younger than two months old
  • Rash, especially if she also has a fever
  • Cuts that might need stitches
  • Drainage from an ear
  • Sore throat or problems swallowing
  • Sharp or persistent pains in the abdomen or stomach
  • Not eaten for more than a day

Source: "You and Your Pediatrician", American Academy of Pediatrics, 2002

Consult your physician or dental professional if using another fluoridated product.

Helpful Tips
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Baby's First Holiday

Having a new baby in the family can bring extra special meaning to the holidays, but it can also create extra tension as everyone jostles for your little one's attention. With careful planning, lots of communication and a willingness to put your new family first, your holiday can be just the way you want it.
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Weigh In

You usually know instinctively if your baby is healthy, but comparing her growth to "normal" guidelines is a good way to help put your mind at ease. Many babies grow a half inch to an inch per month between birth and six months. In that same period, babies can gain five to seven ounces per week. Between six months and a year, she'll probably grow about three-eighths inch per month and gain three to five ounces per week. It's normal for her to double her birth height and triple her birth weight by her first birthday.

Source: "Infant and Toddler Health," www.mayoclinic.com, August 21, 2009

Shoe Knew?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, babies don't actually need to wear shoes until they start learning to walk. Going shoeless indoors allows your infant's feet to grow normally, helps them develop strength and lets her experiment with grasping with her toes. If you want to keep her feet warm or protect them from the elements, opt for soft-soled slippers, booties or nonskid socks.