A healthy start for your baby—and support for you along the way.

Bringing home a new baby is exciting, but it can also come with a lot of questions. Is my baby eating enough? Are they gaining enough weight? Is this normal? When should I be concerned?

At Eastern Iowa Health Center, our Pediatrics team partners with parents and caregivers from the very beginning. Regular newborn and infant visits allow us to monitor your baby’s health, growth and development while giving you a place to ask questions and get support as your baby grows.

Your Baby’s First Visits

Newborns grow and change quickly, which is why regular healthcare visits are especially important during the first year of life.

During newborn and infant visits, your healthcare provider may:

• Measure your baby’s weight, length and head circumference

• Monitor growth and development

• Talk with you about feeding and nutrition

• Perform a physical exam

• Check developmental milestones

• Discuss sleep and safe sleep practices

• Review recommended immunizations

• Provide age-appropriate screenings

• Answer your questions and discuss concerns

Your provider will recommend when your baby should return based on their age, health and individual needs.

Well-Baby Visits During the First Year

Your baby will have several recommended well-child visits throughout the first year. These regular appointments allow your Pediatrics team to follow your baby’s development over time rather than only seeing them when they are sick.

As your baby grows, visits may include conversations about feeding, sleep, movement, communication, safety, development and what you can expect during the next stage.

These appointments are also your time to ask questions. There are no silly questions when it comes to caring for a new baby.

Vaccines Help Protect Your Baby

Immunizations are an important part of preventive healthcare throughout infancy and childhood. Your Pediatrics team will talk with you about recommended vaccines, answer your questions and help keep your child’s immunizations on schedule.

Learn more about childhood vaccinations →

When Your Baby Is Sick

Babies can’t tell us what hurts, and it isn’t always easy for parents to know when a symptom requires medical attention.

Call your child’s healthcare provider if you are concerned about your baby’s health, including changes in feeding, behavior, activity or other symptoms that worry you.

For babies younger than 3 months, a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher requires prompt medical evaluation. Contact your healthcare provider right away for guidance.

Seek emergency medical care if your baby is having severe difficulty breathing, is unresponsive or you believe your baby is experiencing a medical emergency.

We’re Here for Parents, Too

Caring for a newborn is a learning experience, and you don’t have to figure everything out on your own. Our Pediatrics team is here to answer questions, provide guidance and help you feel confident caring for your growing baby.

Whether you’re preparing for your baby’s first visit, have questions about feeding or development, or are concerned because your baby isn’t feeling well, give us a call.