Regular health assessments in the first six months of a baby’s life are crucial for detecting developmental delays and physical problems early, says Dr Murat Koçkar, emphasising the importance of routine check-ups beyond weight monitoring.
Regular check-ups in the first six months of a baby’s life can do far more than track weight, according to Dr Murat Koçkar, a child health and diseases specialist at Medipol University Esenler Hospital. He said this early period is the fastest stage of infant development and that doctors should routinely assess height, weight, head circumference and overall growth. The point, he added, is not only to see whether a baby is gaining weight, but to spot problems such as developmental delay or hip dislocation as early as possible.
Koçkar said the first assessment begins in the delivery room, when staff check the baby’s breathing, heart health, physical measurements and any signs of congenital abnormalities. He also highlighted skin-to-skin contact with the mother as an important step that helps the newborn adjust to the outside world while strengthening bonding. After discharge, he said babies should be seen again within two to four days for checks on jaundice, feeding and weight loss, which he noted is often normal in the first days but still needs medical oversight.
His advice aligns with guidance from the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention and UNICEF, which say six months is a key stage for monitoring development across social, language, cognitive and physical areas. The CDC and UNICEF list milestones many babies reach by that age, including smiling, making sounds, responding to familiar faces, improving head control, rolling over and beginning to sit with support. Mayo Clinic also notes that babies between four and six months usually become more alert and mobile, which is why regular observation matters.
Koçkar said monthly checks should continue through the first six months, then every three months between six and 12 months, and later at age-appropriate intervals. He said early visits can include a physical exam and, when needed, a hip ultrasound to assess for hip problems. He also stressed that the sixth month is especially important because it often brings both the move to solid foods and faster motor development, making it a good time to catch differences early and plan treatment without delay.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
