Weight, height and head circumference

Throughout the pregnancy, those carried out by the gynecologist, have controlled the growth of the baby and have informed us of the weight, height and head circumference estimate of the fetus.

Height and head circumference weight just at birth

A few minutes after birth, the measurements of the weight, height and head circumference. To assess whether these measures are within those expected, tables or graphs are used where the values ​​of the normal population are represented. There are specific ones according to the sex of the baby (boy or girl) on the weight, height and head circumference. genetics, the duration of pregnancy (if it is a full-term or premature baby) and special situations such as intrauterine infections, the mother's health (hypertension, ...), smoking or maternal nutrition can influence the correct development of the baby having a direct impact on the weight, height and head circumference.

Normality, in the growth charts, is considered when the baby is between the 3rd and 97th percentiles. The most important thing, from birth on, is to control how weight, height and perimeter evolve over the months. cranial.

Weight

Weight assessment is one of the most widely used growth rates today, probably because its measurement is very simple. A healthy, full-term newborn weighs between 2,500 and 4,000 grams.

Size

The height measurement is carried out in a systematic way with a horizontal height rod with the baby well stretched, with the head parallel to the ground and with the heels, buttocks and back touching the height rod. The distance between the heel and the vertex of the head is measured. The average length of a newborn is about 50 cm.

Cranial perimeter

Measurement of the head circumference at birth is important in order to be able to assess subsequent measurements. An extendable tape measure (not metallic) is used for this. The tape has to go around the frontal and occipital prominences looking for the maximum perimeter. The mean head circumference is about 34 cm.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• A healthy newborn weighs between 2,500 and 4,000 grams.
• Its average length is about 50 centimeters.
• The average head circumference is about 34 centimeters.

Pediatric Specialist