Question
A full-term small-for-gestational-age baby was born with a length of 42 centimeters and a weight of 2100 grams. The baby has been breastfed exclusively for 5 months and 4 days, weighing only 9.8 jin (about 48.6 kg) and measuring 57.2 centimeters in height. Is it appropriate for this full-term small-for-gestational-age baby to continue being breastfed?
Answer
Although full-term small-for-gestational-age babies are born at term, their weight does not meet the standard, which is usually related to inadequate nutrition during pregnancy or restricted intrauterine growth. Some cases may be accompanied by congenital developmental abnormalities, and they are more likely to have deficiencies in vitamins and trace elements, lower immunity, and more susceptible to various infections. For a five-month-old baby with weight gain concerns, it is recommended to undergo blood tests, including trace elements and vitamin D, to systematically check for organic diseases. Therefore, full-term small-for-gestational-age babies are suitable for continued breastfeeding, but their health status needs to be closely monitored and necessary measures taken.