Objective:

Early weight loss percentile charts can be used to determine the expected weight loss of newborns. Mode of delivery has a marked effect on weight loss in the immediate postpartum period. The aim in the present study was to construct weight loss percentile charts according to mode of delivery in exclusively breastfed, healthy term infants during hospital stay.

Method:

Weight loss in a large Turkish cohort of infants, born between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2014, was evaluated retrospectively. Data on healthy, term and exclusively breastfed neonates during the immediate postpartum hospital stay were collected. Weight change percentile charts were plotted according to mode of delivery.

Results:

The study encompassed 3247 exclusively breastfed neonates. Of infants 48.1% were girls. Mean gestational age was 38.94±0.84 (range 37-41) weeks and birth weight of infants was 3381.1±380.9 (range 2150-5190) grams. The rate of caesarean delivery was 69.3%. The time of hospital stay of infants born by caesarean delivery was significantly longer than infants born vaginally. The frequency of weight measurements of infants showed a statistically significant difference according to the type of delivery. Weight loss as a percentage of birthweight for infants born by caesarean delivery were significantly greater at 24, 48, 72 and 84 hours after birth compared to those born via vaginal delivery.

Conclusion:

Plotted percentile charts according to mode of delivery will enable prediction of early weight loss immediately post-partum. In addition, these percentile charts will help to reassure mothers and encourage breastfeeding exclusivity.

Keywords: early weight loss, percentile charts, exclusive breastfeeding