Almost every newborn drops some weight in the first days after birth. It is expected, temporary, and usually resolves within two weeks — but knowing the limits keeps parents calm.
The normal first dip
Most babies lose up to about 7–10% of birth weight in the first days as they pass meconium and extra fluid. Breastfed babies sometimes lose a little more before milk comes in fully.
When it should turn around
The rule of thumb: weight begins rising again within a few days and most babies are back to birth weight by about two weeks. Slow early gains are common, but the direction should be upward.
The signs that need a call
Call your pediatrician if weight loss exceeds 10%, feeding is clearly difficult, wet diapers are few, or your baby is unusually sleepy. These are practical checks, not reasons to panic.
Watch the first week closely
GrowChart plots the first measurements on the WHO curve so you can see the dip and the recovery as one clear story.
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