One of the biggest concerns for parents of premature babies is weight gain. Since preemies are born before they fully develop, they often grow at a different pace than full-term babies.
But how do you know if your premature baby is gaining weight properly?
In this guide, you’ll learn:
✅ How to track preemie weight gain
✅ Preemie weight gain chart (month-by-month guide)
✅ What affects preemie growth & how to support healthy weight gain
✅ When to be concerned about slow weight gain
Let’s dive in! 🚀
1️⃣ How Much Weight Should a Premature Baby Gain?
Most premature babies follow a different growth curve than full-term babies.
📌 Average Preemie Weight Gain by Age:
| Age (Adjusted) | Expected Weight Gain Per Day |
|---|---|
| 0-2 weeks | 5-10 grams/day |
| 2 weeks – 2 months | 15-30 grams/day |
| 3-6 months | 20-40 grams/day |
| 6-12 months | 10-20 grams/day |
2️⃣ Preemie Growth Chart (Month-by-Month Guide)
Since preemies are smaller at birth, their weight gain is tracked by adjusted age (not actual birth age).
📌 Preemie Weight Growth Guide (Based on Birth Weight of 3-4 lbs / 1.3-1.8 kg):
| Age (Adjusted) | Expected Weight |
|---|---|
| 1 month | 4-5 lbs (1.8-2.3 kg) |
| 2 months | 5-7 lbs (2.3-3.2 kg) |
| 3 months | 6-9 lbs (2.7-4.1 kg) |
| 6 months | 10-14 lbs (4.5-6.4 kg) |
| 12 months | 14-18 lbs (6.4-8.2 kg) |
3️⃣ What Affects a Preemie’s Weight Gain?
Several factors can influence how quickly a premature baby gains weight:
✅ Gestational Age at Birth – Earlier preemies take longer to catch up.
✅ Feeding Type – Breast milk, fortified milk, or preemie formula can affect weight gain.
✅ Medical Conditions – Digestive issues or reflux can slow growth.
✅ NICU Stay – Babies with extended NICU care may have slower early weight gain.
✅ Parental Support & Nutrition – Frequent, high-calorie feedings help boost weight.
4️⃣ How to Help Your Preemie Gain Weight Faster
If your preemie is gaining weight too slowly, here are some ways to support healthy growth:
🥛 Fortify Breast Milk – Ask your doctor about adding preemie formula to breast milk for extra calories.
🍼 Use High-Calorie Formula – Some preemies need 22-24 kcal/oz formula instead of regular 20 kcal/oz.
🛏️ Practice Skin-to-Skin (Kangaroo Care) – Improves digestion and calorie absorption.
🧘♀️ Feed Every 2-3 Hours – Even if baby is asleep, consistent feedings help with growth.
💤 Ensure Enough Sleep – Growth hormones are released during deep sleep.
5️⃣ When to Be Concerned About Slow Weight Gain
📌 Call your doctor if your preemie:
🚨 Gains less than 10 grams per day in the first month.
🚨 Shows constant fussiness or fatigue while feeding.
🚨 Has less than 6 wet diapers per day.
🚨 Is not following their growth curve over 2-3 months.
Conclusion & Call to Action
📌 Key Takeaways:
✅ Preemies grow at their own pace, but steady weight gain is crucial.
✅ Daily weight gain should range from 10-40 grams, depending on age.
✅ Breast milk fortification, high-calorie formula, and frequent feedings help.
✅ If weight gain is too slow, consult a doctor for feeding adjustments.
👉 How did your preemie’s weight gain progress? Share your experience in the comments!