As your baby becomes more independent and mobile, your questions for your doctor may focus more on bumps, bruises, and behavior than anything else.
Your doctor will see a baby twice for routine well baby visits during this period, once at 9 months and again at 12 months.
If your baby has missed any immunizations, or if there's a problem that needs special attention, other visits may be scheduled.
The well-baby visits at 9 and 12 months are much like previous exams, but your discussions with your doctor about behavior and habits may happen more often.
Your baby's check up will include:
At the 12-month visit, the doctor may recommend a blood test to check for anemia and lead poisoning. Sometimes. babies at about age 1 get a tuberculin skin test, depending on where they live and their potential risk of tuberculosis. Parents will get instructions on how to monitor the test and when to return to the office so the nurse or doctor can check the test results.
Bring up any questions or concerns you have. Write down any specific instructions your doctor gives you about special baby care. Keep updating your child's medical record, listing information on growth and any problems or illnesses.
Vaccines recommended may include:
Your baby also may get:
This immunization schedule can vary depending on what combined vaccines your doctor uses.
At this age, developmental delays may cause concern. Babies follow their own timetable for crawling, talking, and walking. Keep that in mind when checking for signs of developmental progress by the first birthday. At the 9-month visit, the doctor will give your child a screening test to help identify any delays.
By 12 months, most babies:
Your baby is probably hearing "no" a lot these days while exploring boundaries. Soon, you'll hear that word back from your little one! Be consistent but loving while teaching the difference between acceptable and unacceptable behavior.
Talk to your doctor if you have concerns about your baby's development.
You should feel comfortable enough with your doctor to call with questions and concerns that can't wait until the next scheduled visit. If your questions can wait, write them down so you don't forget them.
Call the doctor if your baby has a fever, is acting sick, is refusing food or drink, is vomiting, or has diarrhea. Always call if you think that something is wrong — you know your baby best.
Reviewed by: Elana Pearl Ben-Joseph, MD
Date Reviewed: Oct 1, 2023
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