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Infant Weight Loss

Healthy infants lose weight during the first few days after birth. Some may lose more or less than others. Significant infant weight loss is usually due to feeding issues, but can be a sign of underlying health issues such as digestive problems.

  1. Birth

    • At birth an infant is born with extra weight to help with the stresses of labor and the transition to life outside the womb. An infant has stored fat to use as she waits for her mother's milk, which often doesn't come in for up to five days after birth.

    Normal Weight Loss

    • A weight loss of 5 percent of an infant's birth weight the first week of life is considered normal if she is bottle feeding. A loss of 7 percent is considered normal for a breastfeeding infant. Losing 10 percent of an infant's birth weight is considered the highest acceptable amount.

    Concerns

    • If an infant loses 7 percent of his birth weight within 72 hours of birth, he should be put under observation to check how he his feeding. If breastfeeding, mothers should meet with a trained lactation specialist to make sure he is latching on correctly. Other concerns such as if he is getting enough milk should also be addressed.

    Other Factors

    • An infant may lose weight after birth due to the use of intravenous fluids the mother is given during birth. The fluid in the IV may increase the initial birth weight of an infant, causing his initial weight loss to be greater than 10 percent of birth weight. The use of dry heat used in radiant warmers and incubators also contributes to infant weight loss. An infant may lose fluids under heat greater than 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

      Infant weight loss could also be a sign of digestion issues such as gastroesophageal reflux, also known as GER. This is when an infant's stomach contents back up, or reflux, into the esophagus after or during feeding, which causes the infant to spit up or vomit. Speaking with your doctor can help determine whether GER is a serious concern.

    Expert Insight

    • According to Marie Davis, RN, a certified lactation consultant, mothers should be reassured that infant weight loss is normal. If an infant's weight loss is causing concern, have his weight checked within three to five days after birth. In most cases, infants gain weight after discharge from the hospital.

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