Newborn and 6-Week Baby Check in Point Cook
The first weeks with a new baby bring plenty of questions. A GP visit in those early weeks, followed by the 6-week baby check in Point Cook, gives your baby a full examination and gives you time to ask about feeding, sleep and your own recovery.
According to healthdirect, babies are usually checked at birth, at 1 to 4 weeks, at 6 to 8 weeks and at 6 months.
Newborn checks in the first weeks
After you bring your baby home, the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) service will contact you within the first two weeks to arrange a home visit, then sees you at two, four and eight weeks. A GP visit in this period suits babies with feeding or weight worries, or any time you are unsure. Your doctor may suggest extra checks if your baby was premature.
What happens at the 6-week baby check
- weighing and measuring your baby, including head size, and recording it in the green book
- a head-to-toe examination, including the eyes, heart, hips and, for boys, the testes
- questions about feeding, wet nappies, sleep and settling
- how your baby is starting to smile, watch faces and respond to sounds
Write your questions down beforehand. It is easy to forget them with a baby in your arms.
Vaccinations due from 6 weeks
The 2-month vaccines on the NIP schedule can be given from 6 weeks of age:
- a combined vaccine against diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, polio, hepatitis B and Hib
- a pneumococcal vaccine
- rotavirus drops given by mouth
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander babies are also offered a meningococcal B vaccine. The first rotavirus dose has an upper age limit, so try not to delay this visit. All are free for babies eligible for Medicare; see immunisation.
Your own postnatal check
Better Health Channel suggests a postnatal check with your GP at about six to eight weeks, and it can be booked with your baby’s vaccinations. It covers your physical recovery, contraception and how you are feeling. Teary days soon after birth are common, but if low mood or anxiety lasts, tell your GP. PANDA offers support on 1300 726 306.
Booking a 6-week baby check in Point Cook
Tell reception the visit is a 6-week check, whether vaccinations are due, and whether you would like your own check at the same time. Bring the green book and any hospital discharge papers. Standard consultations are bulk billed with a valid Medicare card. You can book online or call (03) 7300 7780. The children’s health page covers care as your baby grows.
When to get help fast
A baby under 3 months with a fever above 38°C needs the nearest hospital emergency department straight away. Call 000 if your baby is drowsy or struggling to breathe. Fever in children explains more. For advice at any hour, the MCH Line is on 13 22 29. For feeding help, the Australian Breastfeeding Association helpline is 1800 686 268.
Common questions
Is the nurse visit the same as the GP check?
No. The MCH nurse focuses on growth, feeding and development, while the GP examines your baby medically. Most families use both.
Can the check and vaccinations be done together?
Yes. Many parents book them in one visit around six to eight weeks.
What if my baby seems unsettled after the vaccines?
Some fussiness or a mild fever can follow. If your baby seems very unwell, see a doctor promptly.
Our baby was born at another hospital. Can we still come?
Yes. Bring the green book and discharge papers so the GP has the birth details and any newborn test results.
Good to know
Before your appointment
If you are a new patient, please arrive at least five minutes before your consultation and bring:
- Photo ID
- A valid Medicare card
Fees and billing
We offer bulk billing to all patients with a valid Medicare card for standard consultations. All procedures are subject to fees.