A measured weight of a newborn obtained immediately or shortly after birth.

Birth weight is the first weight of your baby, taken just after being born. A low birth weight means that the baby is less than 5 pounds, 8 ounces. A high birth weight means that the baby is more than 8 pounds, 13 ounces. A baby with a low birth weight can be born too small, too early (premature), or both. This can happen for many different reasons. They include: Health problems in the pregnant parent; Taking certain medicines during pregnancy; Substance use during pregnancy; Infections during pregnancy; Being pregnant with multiple babies; Problems with the placenta, the organ that brings oxygen and nutrients to the baby; Having small parents; Genetic conditions in the baby; Birth defects. Babies with low birth weight may be more at risk of certain health problems. They include immediate problems, such as: Breathing problems; Infections; Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar); Jaundice; Trouble keeping warm. There is also a higher risk of longer-term problems, including: Delayed motor and social development; Learning disabilities; Certain health conditions as an adult, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity. Causes of high birth weight can include: Having big parents; Diabetes in the pregnant parent; Certain genetic conditions; Too much weight gain during pregnancy. High birth weight can be a concern because it can make delivery of the baby difficult and raise the risk of birth injuries. The baby is at higher risk of problems with: Blood sugar; Breathing problems; Jaundice. You may be able to prevent some birth weight problems by: Getting regular checkups during pregnancy; Getting the right amount of nutrition and calories during pregnancy; Controlling your blood sugar if you have diabetes; Avoiding substance use during pregnancy.

The first weight of a newborn obtained after birth.

The mass or quantity of heaviness of an individual at BIRTH. It is expressed by units of pounds or kilograms.