For Expectant Parents

Congratulations! Having a baby is one of life's most rewarding and challenging events. At Purcellville Pediatrics, we welcome the opportunity to help you transition into parenthood and to partner with you to raise healthy, happy children. Some common issues regarding newborn care are discussed below. We also welcome you to call the office for a complementary prenatal visit during which you can meet the staff and have your specific questions answered.

Hospital Visits

Newborns are seen within 24 hours of birth and each day you are in the hospital at Inova Loudoun and Columbia Reston Hospitals. Please notify the hospital that Dr. Irvine will be the baby's pediatrician and the hospital will give us a call when the baby is born.

First Office Visits

Newborns are generally seen in the office within 2 days of discharge. If Dr. Irvine sees your baby in the hospital, this appointment will be made for you. If your baby is born at another hospital, please call the office prior to discharge to schedule your first appointment. Newborns may need to be seen again prior to the two week well-child checkup to monitor weight gain and jaundice. The baby should be added to your health insurance policy within 30 days of birth.

Breastfeeding vs. Bottle-feeding

While we recognize the many benefits of breastfeeding, we realize that breastfeeding may not be the right option for every family. We support every family in their choice of infant feeding. Our staff has experience in breastfeeding and can provide both in-office support as well as a referral to a lactation consultant if needed. In choosing a formula, generally we recommend starting with a cow's milk protein based formula fortified with iron, DHA, and ARA. (Enfamil, Similac, and Good Start are all good choices.)

Immunizations

Newborns generally receive their first Hepatitis B immunization prior to discharge from the hospital. For our philosophy on immunizations and the full immunization schedule, please see our "For Parents" section.