10 Signs of a Healthy Baby That Every Parent Must Know

Babies need a lot of care and as parents, you make sure you do everything possible for maintaining your baby’s good health and overall well-being. But babies cannot talk and tell us their situation and this puts parents in a difficult situation. But if you are observant then you may notice various signs that show you that your baby is healthy and also doing well. In the following article, we shall talk about some signs that every parent must know to establish the well-being of their babies.

Video: 10 Signs Your Baby Is Healthy

10 Signs That Indicate Your Baby Is Healthy

As a mom you are always anxious for your baby’s health but how to know if the baby is healthy. Here we have some signs of a healthy infant that you should look for in your baby:

1. If your baby demands frequent breastfeeding

Babies are born with an innate sucking reflex, which means that as soon as you get anything close your baby’s mouth, he may begin sucking it. If your baby has a good sucking urge and asks for frequent feeds this means that your baby has a good appetite and a good digestive system. If your baby makes a gulping sound when he swallows milk, this means that he is feeding well. A baby who feels satiated may sleep post the feeding session.

2. If your baby feels calmed and soothed by your presence and voice

Your baby spends nine months in your womb and all this while your voice had become an important part of your baby’s existence. After your baby’s birth too, he may listen and respond to your voice and this is a hint that your baby is on the right track of emotional development. If you are able to soothe your crying baby or he pays attention whenever you talk to your baby, it is evident that your baby is hale and hearty.

3. If you are changing 4-6 diapers in a day

Yes, your baby’s pee and poop also define how healthy he is. No matter whether your baby is breastfed or is on formula milk, on an average he should be wetting 4 to 6 diapers in a day. This is a clear indication that your baby is not only feeding well but he is also properly hydrated. Your baby will also show a considerable weight gain in the first few weeks after birth. However, if your baby is wetting fewer diapers in a day or not showing substantial weight gain, this means he is not feeding well. Also, darker coloured urine indicates dehydration in babies.

4. If your baby is gaining adequate weight and height

Every time you take your baby to the doctor, your doctor measures your baby’s weight and height. In the first six months, your baby grows fast and on an average, your baby may gain 5 to 7 oz of weight and ½ to 1 inch of height every week. As a matter of fact, if your baby is approximately twice his birth by 5 months and thrice his birth weight by the time he is one year old, this means he is healthy. You may ask your doctor about your baby’s ideal weight and height.

5. If your baby looks at you and smiles

Your baby is able to look at you and make eye contact by the time he is one month old, your baby may smile at you by the time he is two months old and he may giggle out loud by the time he is four months old. By the end of five months, your baby may smile back at you. As soon as you register your baby making cooing and babbling sounds, this may mean that he is all set to speak his first words. These small milestones are indicative of the fact that your baby is growing in a healthy way and he is also aware of his surroundings.

6. If your baby observes various things around him

At birth, your baby’s vision is not that great and everything seems blurred to him. However, as your baby grows, he observes and focuses on things around him. After birth, your baby’s vision is limited to 8 to 12 inches only, however, this increases gradually and your baby starts looking and focusing on objects that are farther. Therefore, if your baby has his gaze fixed on the ceiling, he may be observing a moving fan. This is a sign that your baby is growing in a healthy manner.

7. If your baby responds to new sounds

Your baby is able to hear before birth, which means he is aware of various sounds and noises when he was in your womb. However, babies are not able to recognize sounds but as your baby starts growing he may develop a better understanding of various sounds around him. You may notice him reacting to the sound of music, television and even sound from the toys. Whenever your baby may hear a new sound you may see him react, which is a good sign of healthy development.

8. If your baby’s stools are regular

Though it may sound a bit strange, your baby’s poop is also helpful in determining how well he may be doing in terms of his health. Babies have a different frequency in passing stool, where some may poop a few times a day others may poop once in a few days. There is no need to feel concerned till the time your baby’s stools are normal, which means that they are soft and your baby is comfortable in passing the stool.

9. If your baby sleeps well

Sleeping is very important for the overall development of the babies and if your baby sleeps well he will grow well too. As your baby grows, his improved nervous system will help him get into various schedules and sleep is one of them. If your baby sleeps well, this means he is happy and contented and therefore, it is a sign of healthy development.

10. If your baby is able to support his own weight

When your baby is one month or older, he may be able to lift his head briefly and by the time he turns three months, he may be able to lift his head for a longer time by lying on his tummy. This is a great indication that your baby has control over his muscles and thus trying to make various movements. By six months of age, your baby may roll on both sides, sit with support and by the time he is one year old, he will be able to crawl, stand and walk with support. These all are indicators of a healthy baby.

Above-mentioned are some of the signs that show that your baby is doing fine. However, if you experience any developmental delays, it is suggested that you seek help from your doctor in understanding the reason and take necessary measures to cure the same.

Also Read:

When Does a Newborn Baby Start Hearing After Birth
Baby Girl Height & Weight Growth Chart – 0 to 12 Months
Baby Boy Height & Weight Growth Chart – 0 to 12 Months