Growth Problems

Growth problems are used to describe poor growth, or growth failure in a baby. Stature and growth problems are a sign of undernutrition, which a baby may experience for a number of reasons.

Height and weight gain happen most quickly during a baby’s first year. On average, a baby’s length will increase by 50% in the first 12 months of their life.

Growth Problems
& CMPA

Why does my baby have growth problems?

Growth problems can be caused by a number of factors, including genetics, hormonal issues, illnesses, and poor absorption of food. It is also possible that your baby has a food allergy, e.g. Cows’ Milk Protein Allergy (CMPA). Or, it could be that your baby has a small appetite or has a problem with their digestive system, e.g., they have frequent reflux, or diarrhoea. If you suspect that your baby is not growing properly, you should talk to your baby’s doctor/GP.

Could it be Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy?

Slow weight gain may lead to a diagnosis of ‘faltering growth’, which is one of the symptoms of CMPA. However, babies with CMPA usually experience more than just one symptom and these symptoms can be very different from one baby to the next. Therefore it is always best to discuss it with your baby’s doctor/GP. They will look at the symptoms in detail and often use a symptom scoring system to decide if it is related to CMPA.

Keep a diary of when your baby feeds and of any symptoms that occur during or after feeding. Be sure to note down the time e.g., in minutes, hours or days, and when the symptom/s happened.

If your baby is breastfed, then mum should also record everything she is eating and drinking, as well as timings of symptoms after feeding. It’s a good idea to keep this diary for at least 1 week before seeing your doctor/GP.

What to Do Next?

If you are worried that your baby has symptoms related to cow's milk, you should seek advice from your doctor/GP. Whilst you are preparing to visit your doctor/GP, it can be a good idea to record your baby's symptoms over a few days.