When babies are born, 95 percent will weigh between 5.5 and 10 pounds, according to "What to Expect." Soon after birth, most babies will lose some weight, so they actually go home from the hospital weighing less than when they were born. This is normally not a concern, as long as they don't lose too much weight.
Amount
A weight loss consisting of anything under 10 percent of a baby's birth weight is considered to be normal and not a concern. Should a baby lose more than 10 percent of her weight within the first few days, her doctor will look for possible problems and order supplemental feedings to try to get her weight back up, says kidshealth.org.
Reasons
Babies have extra fluid when they are born, according to Kids Health, and in the days after birth they lose this fluid. They don't need to eat much yet, so they are not replacing this fluid loss for a few days. After the mother's milk comes in and the baby starts eating more, the lost weight will be regained.
Time Frame
This weight loss usually starts in newborns before they leave the hospital and can last for two or three days. Once the baby starts nursing regularly, his weight will start to increase again. Within 10 days to two weeks, the baby should have regained enough weight so that he weighs at least what he did at birth. Typical weight gain during the first few months is six to eight ounces per week, according to "What to Expect."
Warning
There are some signs that your baby might be losing more weight than he should due to illness. The Medical Center of Central Georgia says to watch for persistent crying or irritability, lethargy or listlessness, and poor feeding, since these are some of the first changes that come with an illness. Feeding problems are especially concerning, and can include weight loss, excessive spitting up, trouble sucking and lack of interest in eating.
Expert Insight
Doctors usually schedule well-child visits at one week, two weeks and one month of age so that they can monitor a baby's weight gain and growth. However, if you are concerned about how your baby is doing, you can bring her in at any time for a weight check and to discuss your concerns. According to The Medical Center of Central Georgia, if a baby starts to have fewer soiled diapers or has loose skin and a thin, drawn face, she might not be gaining enough weight.
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