When Should You Take Your Newborn to a Paediatrician? A Singapore Parent's Guide

As a new parent in Singapore, one of your primary concerns is ensuring your baby receives proper medical care. Understanding when to visit a paediatrician is crucial for your newborn's health and development. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the early days of parenthood and make informed decisions about your baby's healthcare.

First Visit: Within the First Week

Most Singapore hospitals recommend scheduling your newborn's first paediatrician visit within 3-5 days after discharge. It's always a good idea to shortlist one or two paediatricians before your baby is born. Our moms have also shared helpful tips on How to Find The Right Paediatrician here.

This initial check-up is crucial because:

• Your paediatrician will assess your baby's weight, as newborns typically lose 5-10% of their birth weight in the first few days

• They'll check for jaundice, which commonly develops 2-4 days after birth

• You can discuss feeding patterns and any initial concerns

• The doctor will examine your baby's umbilical cord stump

Regular Well-Baby Visits

In Singapore, the recommended schedule for well-baby visits is:

• 2 weeks old

• 1 month old

• 2 months old

• 4 months old

• 6 months old

• 9 months old

• 12 months old

During these visits, your paediatrician will:

• Monitor growth and development

• Administer vaccinations according to Singapore's National Childhood Immunisation Schedule

• Address any parental concerns

• Provide guidance on feeding, sleep, and developmental milestones

Urgent Situations: When to See a Paediatrician Immediately

However, it is important to be able to recognize signs and symptoms in your newborn that require immediate medical attention. If your newborn shows any of these signs, call and schedule an immediate visit:

1. Fever

   • Any temperature above 38°C in babies under 3 months

   • Fever lasting more than 24 hours in older infants

2. Feeding Issues

   • Refusing multiple feeds

   • Significant decrease in wet diapers

   • Poor sucking or latching

3. Breathing Difficulties

   • Rapid breathing (more than 60 breaths per minute)

   • Chest retractions

   • Unusual noises while breathing

4. Other Concerning Symptoms

   • Excessive drowsiness or difficulty waking

   • Persistent crying that sounds unusual

   • Yellow skin or eyes (jaundice)

   • Rashes with fever

   • Vomiting or diarrhoea

Preparing for Paediatrician Visits

A visit to the paediatrician in Singapore easily costs $100 each time and more. Here's what you can do to make the most of each visit:

1. Keep a log of:

   • Feeding times and amounts

   • Wet and soiled diapers

   • Sleep patterns

   • Any concerning symptoms

   Mom Tip: Keep a small notebook and pen in the diaper caddy as an easy visual reminder to take note of these. After a while, it'll become an easy habit.
   

2. Prepare questions about:

   • Vaccination schedule

   • Development milestones

   • Feeding concerns

   • Sleep routines
     

3. Bring essential items:

   • Health booklet

   • Diapers and wipes

   • Extra clothes

   • Feeding supplies

   Mom Tip: Keep a baby bag ready with a set of all these items for the doctor's at all times, so that when you're in a hurry, you won't have to worry about missing anything important.

Regular paediatrician visits are essential for monitoring your newborn's health and development. While the recommended schedule provides a framework, trust your parental instincts and don't hesitate to seek medical attention if you're concerned about your baby's well-being. Building a good relationship with your paediatrician early on will help ensure your baby receives the best possible care during these crucial early months.

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Remember: This article serves as a general guide. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice based on your baby's specific needs.