Your baby's first doctor visit can be a bit of a challenge. Follow our advice to make this experience as smooth as posible. 

By Vincia Maloney

After you leave the hospital as a new mommy, you will be in close touch with health care providers for the first months of your newborn's life. A pediatrician will examine your baby at birth and again within 24 hours.

Then, if you go home within 48 hours, you will be advised to bring your newborn in for a Well Baby visit two to four days after birth, again when he/she is two to four weeks old, and then at two months, four months, and six months of age. Below are some tips to know before you make that first visit to the doctors office:

Leave the house and arrive early. Babies can make anyone take longer to get out of the house, so give yourself extra time to get ready.

Be calm. Don't panic. If you become anxious or nervous then your baby will pick up on your emotions and he/she will begin to worry also. Remember: This is just a doctor's visit and it concerns the health of your baby.

Be prepared. Jot down questions you want to ask or concerns you may want to discuss. Friends and family members who already have children may give good advice but it's always best to seek out the doctor's opinion first.

Not only should you be prepared to ask questions but also be prepared to answer questions. The doctor will most likely ask you about your pregnancy and your labor and medical history in case there are any diseases in the family that may affect the baby. Answer honestly to help the doctor detect any health problems. The doctor may also ask about your baby's progress, sleeping and eating patterns. It always helps to have these things documented to make things easier for you and the baby as well.

What to expect : Expect your doctor to examine your baby's soft spots: ears, eyes, mouth, skin, reflexes, genitals, heart, lungs, hips and abdomen. This type of examination may be startling for your child, so be sure to comfort them afterwards.

To make your baby's visit more comfortable, bring the toys that hold your child's attention. Or yo

u can even ask the doctor if you can hold your baby during examination. Most doctors won't mind. Don't be afraid to ask questions -- I'm sure the doctor has heard it all before.