Your first visit to the paediatrician - procedure, tips & frequently asked questions
Prof. Dr. med. Vera Bernet
June 16, 2026
5 min
The first visit to the paediatrician is a special moment for many parents - and is often associated with questions. Is my baby healthy? Is it developing in line with its age? And what can I actually expect at this appointment? This article gives you a clear overview of the process, practical tips for preparation and answers to frequently asked questions.
When does the first paediatrician appointment take place and why exactly then?
In Switzerland, the first paediatric check-up takes place at the age of four weeks. As a rule, the newborn is examined in hospital after birth. This is followed by regular check-ups with the paediatrician. The purpose of these appointments is to monitor your child's development and recognise any abnormalities at an early stage. The exact dates of the check-ups with the paediatrician are listed in your child's health booklet. Every newborn in Switzerland receives a health booklet; it accompanies your child until the age of 16. You should therefore take it with you to every visit to the doctor.
Important: These scheduled appointments only apply to healthy children without acute symptoms. If your baby shows symptoms or you are unsure, you should not wait until the next regular appointment, but have your child examined by a doctor as soon as possible.
Why this timing makes medical sense
In the first few days, babies lose seven to ten per cent of their birth weight - after that, their weight should increase again. Breastfeeding problems or drinking difficulties often only become apparent after a few days at home. Jaundice (neonatal jaundice) often peaks between the third and fifth day. Your caring midwife is a great support here and will help you with these issues. The first paediatrician's appointment is an opportunity to get to know each other and to check the first stages of development.
What happens at the first paediatrician appointment - what is examined?
At the first paediatrician appointment, your child will undergo a comprehensive examination. The aim is to assess development, health and adaptation in the first month of life.
Measurements
Physical examination
Physical examination
- Heart and lungs are listened to
- Skin and blood circulation are assessed. It is not only important that they are present, but also that they change over time.
- Check reflexes and neurological development (sucking reflex, grasping reflex, Moro reflex/startle response): These reflexes show whether the nervous system is functioning in an age-appropriate manner
- Stomach, digestion and navel: Issues such as flatulence or bowel movements are also categorised here.
Measurements
- Weight: After birth, babies initially lose weight (up to approx. seven to ten per cent). At the first appointment, it is checked whether the weight gain is normal.
- Length: Initially plays a minor role, but is documented as a basic value.
- Head circumference: Gives an indication of the development of the brain. What is important here is the progression, not a single value.
Physical examination
- Heart and lungs are listened to
- Skin and blood circulation are assessed. It is not only important that they are present, but also that they change over time.
- Check reflexes and neurological development (sucking reflex, grasping reflex, Moro reflex/startle response): These reflexes show whether the nervous system is functioning in an age-appropriate manner
- Stomach, digestion and navel: Issues such as flatulence or bowel movements are also categorised here.
Conversation with the parents (central component)
An essential part of the appointment is the discussion with you. This is about
- Drinking behaviour and nutrition
- sleeping behaviour
- Crying phases
- Questions about everyday life
- General well-being
Important: It is not about perfect values, but about the overall picture and development of your baby. Your observations are also an important part of the medical assessment.
Tips for preparation
Extensive preparation is not necessary. However, these points will help you:
- Your child's insurance card (if available)
- Documents from the hospital
- Your own notes with questions or observations
- Above all, the health booklet: the midwife has already documented her findings here.
It is helpful to think about this in advance:
- Is my baby drinking regularly?
- How does my child sleep?
- Are there any abnormalities in behaviour?
This information helps to make the most of the appointment.
Frequently asked questions from parents at the first appointment
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The first paediatrician's appointment is more than just a routine check-up - it reviews a medically sensitive phase in the first month of life. Between these appointments, you as parents are the most important observers. If something changes or doesn't seem right, it's worth getting an early check-up. Our permanent childcare centre looks after children from 0 to 16 years of age on a long-term basis, 365 days a year. We are also equipped for emergencies and accept new families at any time.
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