Small babies due to complications
Babies who are smaller, but otherwise appear normal, do not have any major health risks. The main concern is the fact that once they are born, their size can impair their ability to maintain their body heat, especially in the first few days after birth. This is because the surface area of their body is large, compared to their body weight, making it easier for them to lose body heat. Small babies need to be dried and wrapped warmly soon after birth.
Small babies can also lose heat from their head. Putting on a bonnet can help keep the heat in. You may also consider delaying bathing them. The caregiver will probably want to check their temperature in the first 24 hours. Temperatures below 36
o Celsius are usually considered too low. If the baby becomes cold, they can become lethargic (and sometimes reluctant to feed). They can also have low blood sugars, possibly needing admission to the
neonatal intensive care nursery for a drip. You may wish to read more about this in Class 10,
observations for well babies.
Small babies due to complications
Babies who are small, due to complications with their mother's health, placental insufficiency or because the baby is unwell themselves, can have many health risks. These babies may be born with less fat (or muscle) tissue, making their skin look loose, especially around their bottom and thighs. Their skin may be dry and they often look 'wide-eyed', with their head looking larger than their body.
The major health risks for these babies can include a higher chance of: