What to expect at your baby’s 12 month check-up

Taking your baby to regular doctor’s check-ups is so important for them. However it can be a bit scary and you’ll probably want to prepare for what the doctor will ask you… For reliable, affordable home medical equipment to use on your baby, such a thermometers or scales - contact Supply Doctor today!

Here’s what to expect at your baby’s 12 month check-up:

What the doctor will do

~ Weigh and measure your baby

You'll need to undress your baby completely for weighing. The doctor weighs your baby, measures length and head circumference, and plots the numbers on a growth chart. The chart enables you and your doctor to track your baby's rate of growth.

~ Do a complete physical

Heart and lungs: Uses a stethoscope to listen for any abnormal heart rhythms or breathing problems.

Eyes: Checks for signs of congenital eye conditions and other problems. Your doctor may also check for blocked tear ducts and discharge.

Ears: Looks for signs of infection and observes how your baby responds to sound.

Mouth: Looks for signs of infection and any new teeth, among other things.

Head: Checks the soft spots (fontanels) and the shape of your baby's head.

Body: Checks your baby's reflexes and muscle tone, and examines his skin for rashes and paleness. Pale skin is a sign of iron-deficiency anaemia which babies are at high risk for between 9 and 24 months.

Belly: Presses gently on the abdomen to check for a hernia or enlarged organs.

Genitals: Opens your baby's diaper and checks for signs of infection.

Hips and legs: Moves your baby's legs around to look for problems in the hip joints.

~ Give your baby their shots

An assistant may administer the vaccines. This is usually done at the end of the appointment so you can have some privacy afterward to comfort your baby.

~ Address any other concerns

The doctor will order a blood test for iron-deficiency anaemia and assess your child's risk of lead exposure and order a blood test to screen for it, if necessary.

The doctor will address any other concerns (such as questions about vitamins and treating falls, cuts and scrapes), ask you some questions and help you understand what's normal at this age.

This doctor visit worksheet can help you prepare for your child's next appointment. You may want to read through the questions and jot down answers beforehand. Download a printable version of the doctor visit worksheet to take with you.