Q: Six-month checkup?

Posted Thursday, October 23, 2008 1:20 PM

Q: What can I expect at baby’s six-month checkup?

A:  Baby’s six-month checkup will be very similar to his previous well-baby visits. The doc will check baby’s development by measuring his weight, length, and head circumference. Don’t worry too much about where he fits into percentiles. Your doctor just wants to make sure he’s developing at a healthy rate as part of an overall pattern. If you or your partner fell in a certain percentile as babies, chances are that baby will follow a similar growth rate (if you’re both short, baby probably will be too).

Another common occurrence at the doctor’s office is getting shots -- this is baby’s third round of immunizations. Baby will react to your anxiety level, so be very calm when it comes time for him to get vaccinated. Show him that you trust the doctor and that all is well. You may even suggest holding baby in your lap while he gets his shots. And definitely soothe him afterward: Nurse him, give him a bottle, or have a pacifier on hand -- whatever works.

Other things you’ll review with the doctor at this visit: baby’s teething, head control, vision, hearing, ability to reach, grab, and play with objects, his ability to roll over and bear some weight on his legs, and his social and vocal interaction. Always come equipped with questions (Is baby ready for solid food? Is he sleeping properly? What should I do if he reacts to the vaccinations?), and be sure to get them answered before baby gets poked with the needle.

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