Baby's First Days: When to Call the Doctor

As you and your baby adjust to your new life together, how will you know what is normal and when its time to call the doctor?

Trust your instincts; if something doesn't seem right, call your baby's pediatrician.

The Nemours Foundation lists these signs that its time to call a doctor:

If your baby aged 2 months or younger has a temperature of 100.4F or higher
If your baby shows signs of dehydration, such as crying with no tears (some newborns do not have tears yet), lack of urination for more than 6 hours, sunken eyes or a sunken soft spot on his head
If its hard to get your baby to wake up, or the baby is not alert, extremely inactive or severely drowsy
If your baby has frequent diarrhea or blood in his diaper or vomit
If your baby experiences rapid breathing or difficulty breathing
If your baby vomits often and forcefully (more than spitting up)

This message is not intended to provide individual medical advice. Always seek the advice of a physician or qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have about your health or medical condition, your breastfeeding issues and your infant's health. Never disregard, avoid or delay contacting a doctor or other qualified professional because of something you have read in our emails, webpages or other electronic communications.