Weight loss of 5 to 10 percent in the days following birth is normal. Usually, a baby will regain that weight in the following weeks. If you are concerned that your baby has lost too much weight, or simply want to know how much weight she has lost, you can calculate her weight loss percentage with a few simple tools. If your baby has lost too much weight, your doctor may prescribe supplements or diagnose whether a serious condition is causing the weight loss.
Using Adult Scale
Step 1
Weigh yourself on the scale. Record your weight.
Step 2
Weigh yourself while holding the baby. Record the weight.
Step 3
Subtract your weight while alone on the scale from your weight while holding the baby. The result is the baby's current weight. Go to step 2 in section 2.
Using Baby Scale
Step 1
Weigh the baby and record the weight.
Step 2
Subtract the baby's current weight from her birth weight. If the answer is a positive number, this is the amount of weight the baby has lost since birth. If the answer is negative or zero, the baby has not lost any weight.
Step 3
Divide the positive result from step 2 by your baby's birth weight.
Step 4
Multiply your answer from the previous step by 100. The result is the percentage of birth weight lost.
Tips and Warnings
- Remove the baby's clothing, including diaper, before weighing.
- Loss of 10 percent or less of birth weight is normal. If your baby has lost more than 10 percent of birth weight, consult a pediatrician immediately. Ask the pediatrician to weigh your baby and calculate birth weight loss for you.
Things You'll Need
- Scale
- Calculator
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