Is 6 pounds a low birth weight?

Is 6 pounds a low birth weight?

The average weight at birth was between 6 pounds, 9 ounces (3,000 grams), and 7 pounds, 11 ounces (3,500 grams). 6 8.28% of babies were considered to be low birth weight (defined as less than 5.5 pounds or about 2,500 grams).

What is considered low birth weight at full term?

What is low birth weight? Low birth weight is a term used to describe babies who are born weighing less than 5 pounds, 8 ounces (2,500 grams). An average newborn usually weighs about 8 pounds. A low-birth-weight baby may be healthy even though he or she is small.

How many pounds is considered a low birth weight?

A birth weight of less than 5 pounds, 8 ounces is diagnosed as low birth weight. Babies weighing less than 3 pounds, 4 ounces at birth are considered very low birth weight.

When does a baby have a low birth weight?

Babies are weighed within the first few hours after birth. The weight is compared against the number of weeks of pregnancy (gestational age). If your baby weighs less than 2,500 grams (5 pounds, 8 ounces), he or she has a low birth weight. Babies weighing less than 1,500 grams (3 pounds, 5 ounces) at birth are considered very low birth weight.

Who is most at risk for low birthweight?

Race. African-American babies are two times more likely to have low birthweight than white babies. Age. Teen mothers (especially those younger than 15 years old) have a much higher risk of having a baby with low birthweight. Multiple birth. Multiple birth babies are at increased risk for low birthweight because they often are premature.

What should a high birth weight baby be?

A high birth weight is more than 8.8 pounds. A low birth weight baby can be born too small, too early ( premature ), or both. This can happen for many different reasons.

How can I prevent a low birth weight baby?

This is because of advances in the care of sick and premature babies. But preventing preterm births is 1 of the best ways to prevent babies born with low birth weight. Regular prenatal care is the best way to prevent preterm births and low-birth-weight babies. At prenatal visits, the healthcare provider will check the health of you and your baby.