Vaccinations and health checkups are important to ensure that your baby continues to grow up healthy.
It's a good idea to have an idea of your local pediatrician's office while you're still pregnant.
Here we will introduce what you need to take care of your baby's health.
Baby health
vaccination
Newborn babies receive immunity from their mothers. However, this immunity wears off after a few months. Vaccinations build immunity in babies, making them less likely to get sick, or even if they do get sick, the symptoms will be milder.
Vaccinations are important for protecting your baby's health and growth, and begin from the age of two months. There are many different types of vaccines. Managing the vaccination schedule can be difficult, but it's best to consult with your pediatrician before proceeding.
Where can I get the vaccine? What is the difference between routine vaccinations and optional vaccinations?
Generally, vaccinations are administered at a pediatric clinic, but depending on the vaccine, there may be mass vaccinations. In the case of mass vaccinations, the date will be designated by the city or town, so be sure to go.
Vaccinations are divided into routine vaccinations and optional vaccinations.
Routine vaccinations
The national and local governments strongly recommend vaccination for infants and young children.
This vaccine is free in most areas and is economically affordable.
Optional vaccination
It is a vaccine that is left up to the parents to decide whether or not to get vaccinated. The cost is borne by the parents. This does not mean that it is a less important vaccine.
Infant health checkups
The purpose of infant health checkups is to check the development of babies and children at key growth milestones. Standard times are 1 month, 3-4 months, 6-7 months, 9-10 months, 18 months, and 3 years of age. The timing, content, and public funding for health checkups vary depending on the local government. This is an important opportunity to get a sense of your baby's growth and discuss any concerns you may have. Be sure to keep a careful record of the checkups in your maternal and child health handbook, etc.
Voices of senior mothers
- At my first group health checkup, I was overwhelmed by the number of parents and children, and I was flustered trying to get my child dressed and taken off and moving around with all my luggage. The trick is to dress your child in clothes that are easy to put on and take off, and to keep necessary items organized so they are easy to find.
- When my baby was little, I was so busy every day that I didn't realize how much he was really growing... But at the checkup, I was able to really see how much he'd grown! He's able to do things like this! Now that he's grown up, I feel nostalgic when I look back at his maternal and child health handbook.
What is a pediatric department?
Babies and children's bodies are not simply smaller versions of adults. They are constantly growing and developing. Pediatricians examine babies and children taking these characteristics into consideration. Pediatricians are available for children aged 0 to 15 years. They are a reliable ally in child-rearing, not only for sickness but also for vaccinations and health checkups.
Make a list of pediatricians within your commuting distance. Consultation times, closing days, and reservation systems vary. It's a good idea to make a list of multiple pediatricians so you won't have to worry about closing days.
Voices of senior mothers
- I thought I could just go to the pediatrician closest to my house. But when I actually started going, I found it difficult to ask questions to the doctor who seemed busy, and my child would only get a fever on days when the doctor was closed... After gathering information from friends, I decided to go to a clinic where it was easy to get advice. There were many things I learned from going there, such as cleanliness and the attitude of the receptionists.
- The first time my child developed a fever, I panicked and went out without even knowing about the reservation system. As a result, I ended up having to wait a long time, and regret not having looked into it beforehand. Since my husband may have to go, it's important to share information from the beginning about the reservation system and what to bring.
Points to remember when going to a pediatrician
Your first visit to the pediatrician can be a little nerve-wracking. To ensure a smooth visit, make sure you have everything you need ready so you can easily access it. We recommend keeping all necessary documents, such as your maternal and child health handbook, infant medical certificate, and vaccination card, in a maternal and child health handbook case.
What to bring
・Maternal and Child Health Handbook, Insurance Card, Infant Medical Certificate, Vaccination Ticket, Diaper Changing Set, Complete Set of Clothes, Breastfeeding Supplies such as Milk, Nursing Cap, etc.
Tip
・Vaccinations should be given on days when you are feeling well. If you are not feeling well, please reschedule your vaccination.
・Leave with plenty of time.
・Make sure your child wears undergarments and clothing that are easy to put on and take off. ・We recommend that you fill out any information that can be filled out at home in advance. It is a good idea to write down any questions you want to ask so that you don't forget to ask.
Medical preparedness
Comprehensive medical insurance for those aged 0 and over
With the desire to "provide an environment where children can be raised with peace of mind," we have started offering medical insurance that can be enrolled from the age of 0. In addition to addressing concerns about your child's unexpected illness or injury, we also help reduce the burden on your family and support your precious children and their families.
Life after giving birth can be hectic more than you might imagine. Just like preparing for childbirth, it's a good idea to think about baby insurance as well.
We are offering events that include consultation sessions and maternity seminars aimed at expectant mothers and fathers who are about to have a baby, where we will introduce the medical expenses system and key points to consider when choosing insurance for your baby.
The first 1000 days are important for your baby
By registering, you can participate in events tailored to your child's development and order "custom-named bibs" exclusively for 1000days members at Familia shops nationwide.
We will also send you real-time information via email about your baby's growth, items that can be used at that time, and other information that will be useful for raising your child.
Click here for details on the 1000days service
After registering as a Familia Member, please don't forget to register your child's information as well.
Anyone who registers their child's birthdays from the expected date of birth to the age of two can use the 1000days service.
The registration procedure is as follows:
STEP 1: Register as a Familia Member.
STEP 2 After registering, select "Add child information" from "Child information" on your My Page.
STEP 3: Enter your child's date of birth and name in the child information section, and if you are pregnant, your due date.
Registration is now complete and you can start using the 1000days service immediately.
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