If you’re a new parent, you might be surprised when your newborn gets a “sugar check” shortly after birth. You may wonder, Why does my baby need their blood sugar checked? Let’s break it down in a friendly and simple way, so you can feel confident in understanding why this is an important part of newborn care.
What is a Sugar Check?
A sugar check refers to measuring your baby’s blood glucose (sugar) levels. Just like in adults, babies need the right amount of glucose in their blood to stay healthy and energized. Glucose is a major source of fuel for the body and brain, so it’s important that your little one’s blood sugar stays within a normal range.
Why Do Babies Need Sugar Checks?
There are a few reasons why some babies need their blood sugar checked, especially in the first few hours or days after birth:
1. To Monitor for Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)
One of the main reasons newborns get sugar checks is to make sure they aren’t experiencing low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia. Babies, especially those born to moms with diabetes or those born prematurely, can sometimes have trouble maintaining their blood sugar levels right after birth. This can lead to symptoms like jitteriness, difficulty feeding, or even sleepiness.
2. For Babies Born to Moms with Diabetes
If you had gestational diabetes during pregnancy, your baby might be at a higher risk of low blood sugar after birth. During pregnancy, your baby may have gotten used to higher levels of glucose from your bloodstream. After delivery, your baby’s body might continue making extra insulin, which can lower their blood sugar more than usual. That’s why sugar checks are done to make sure everything stays balanced.
3. For Premature or Small Babies
Premature babies (born before 37 weeks) or babies who are smaller than expected for their gestational age may also need sugar checks. These babies might have less stored glucose and could have a harder time keeping their sugar levels steady.
4. For Large Babies
On the flip side, babies who are larger than average, particularly if they weigh over 9 pounds at birth, may also need to have their blood sugar checked. Larger babies are sometimes at risk of low blood sugar because their bodies may have been producing extra insulin during pregnancy.
How is a Sugar Check Done?
A sugar check is done with a quick and simple test. Your baby’s healthcare provider will take a small drop of blood, usually from the heel, and measure the glucose level with a device. It’s similar to how adults with diabetes check their blood sugar at home. The process only takes a few seconds, and while your baby might not love it, it’s over quickly!
What Happens If the Sugar Levels Are Low?
If your baby’s blood sugar is low, don’t worry! There are several ways to help bring it back to normal:
- Feeding: Breastfeeding or formula feeding is one of the easiest and most effective ways to raise your baby’s blood sugar. Getting those nutrients into their system can quickly help stabilize their levels.
- Supplemental Feeding: Sometimes, babies may need a little extra formula or breast milk, even if they’re already breastfeeding. Your healthcare provider might suggest giving a small amount of formula to help raise your baby’s blood sugar.
- Glucose Gel: In some cases, healthcare providers may use a small amount of glucose gel, placed inside your baby’s cheek, to help boost their sugar levels.
- Intravenous (IV) Glucose: If feeding and glucose gel aren’t enough, some babies might need glucose through an IV to keep their levels stable. This is more common for babies in the NICU or those with ongoing blood sugar issues.
Can Low Blood Sugar Cause Long-Term Problems?
Most babies with low blood sugar will recover quickly once their levels are stabilized, especially if it’s caught early and managed well. The goal is to make sure your baby’s brain and body get enough glucose to stay healthy. That’s why sugar checks in those first hours or days are so important—they help identify any issues right away so they can be addressed.
What You Can Do as a Parent
While it can feel concerning to hear that your baby needs a sugar check, it’s important to remember that this is a common part of newborn care, especially for certain babies. Here’s what you can do to help:
- Feed Often: Frequent breastfeeding or formula feeding can help regulate your baby’s blood sugar, so don’t be afraid to offer your baby a feed often, especially in those early days.
- Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider any questions you have about your baby’s sugar checks. Understanding what’s happening can help you feel more confident.
- Stay Calm: Most of the time, low blood sugar is a temporary issue that resolves with feeding and care. Your baby’s care team is there to make sure everything is handled properly.
In the End
Sugar checks are just one of the many ways healthcare providers ensure that newborns are healthy and thriving. Whether it’s due to diabetes during pregnancy, being born early, or being a little smaller or larger than average, your baby’s blood sugar levels are monitored to keep them safe. With proper care, most babies quickly bounce back and do just fine!
