Congratulations, you made it through the first few weeks, and the time has come for the 2 month visit. Although it might be an overstatement to say that things are running “like clockwork”, you are probably getting into a groove and feeling a little more comfortable. Do not be concerned if life still feels hectic. A new baby is a big change for even the most prepared of parents, and the sleep deprivation that you are experiencing may make it more difficult to cope. Regardless, pat yourself on the back! Reaching this point is a major accomplishment!
Although you may not have had a lot of time to think about your own needs these past few weeks, it is important to take a moment to check in with yourself and your spouse. How are your spirits? Does mom have any signs of the baby blues? Does Dad feel included even though many of baby’s needs may only be satisfied by mom (i.e. in the case of breastfeeding)? Have family members been helpful, or do you need a break and some time to yourself? These are only a few questions to make yourself stop and think about your own needs, as they are just as important as your baby’s.
Your baby has done a lot of growing since birth. At each visit, we will follow your child’s growth via his specific growth chart. We will also check on your child’s development, by asking you certain questions about what she is doing. If you have concerns or questions, please bring them up.
What should you expect of your child now that he is 2 months old? Most babies this age start to coo and vocalize with baby sounds. You should even see your baby smile! Your baby should be attentive to sounds and certain things she sees. Babies should show some pleasure when interacting with their parents. When your baby is lying tummy-side-down, she should be attempting to lift her head, neck, and upper chest.
A few safety tips to still consider…….
- Is baby on his back to sleep?
- Is baby in a backwards facing car seat in the back seat of the car?
- Do you have a rectal thermometer with which you can check your baby’s temperature?
(if 100.5 degrees or higher, your baby should see a doctor immediately) - Is your baby always attended on a changing table, couch, bath, or bed?
Per the CDC guidelines, it is recommended that babies continue to receive their vaccines at the 2 month visit. The first is Hepatitis B #2. Most babies already received the first Hepatitis vaccine in the hospital at their birth. The others vaccines include DTaP, Hib and Polio (which can be combined into one vaccine-Pentacel), Prevnar and Rotavirus vaccines. If you have questions, please ask us.
We will see you and your baby at 4 months of age for the next well child visit. We look forward to it!
Screening Tools
Edinburgh Maternal Depression screening (CHADIS)
Ages to Stages (CHADIS)
Visit Priorities (CHADIS)