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Learning About Body Temperature Problems in Newborns

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Thermometer

What is body temperature?

A normal body temperature is 98.6°F (37°C). But in newborns, the temperature maybe be higher or lower than this. That's because the body usually keeps its temperature within a safe range. But in a newborn, this may not happen for several days to weeks.

Is a high or low temperature a problem?

Often, a high or low temperature is not a problem. It may mean that your baby is getting used to life outside the womb.

But sometimes it can be a sign of a problem. Your baby may have an infection.

Other things can cause a high or low temperature:

  • A newborn may have a fever if the mother had a fever before she gave birth.
  • The baby may be wearing too many clothes. Or the baby may have too many blankets.

How is a high or low temperature treated?

Your doctor will watch your baby carefully to make sure the high or low temperature is not a problem. Your doctor will:

  • Check to see if your baby has an infection.
  • Check your baby's weight. This is to find out if your baby is getting enough to eat.
  • Take steps to treat your baby's temperature.
    • For a low temperature, your doctor may use an incubator or plastic hoods or blankets. Or the doctor may ask a caregiver to hold the baby skin-to-skin. This is called kangaroo care.
    • For a high temperature, your doctor may tell you to take the covers off your baby. Or your doctor may give your baby acetaminophen (Tylenol).

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.

Current as of: October 24, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: October 24, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.