What are the U examinations?
The U examinations (also called preventive child check-ups) are early detection examinations in which the mental and physical development of a child is regularly checked within the framework of a pediatric examination in order to be able to recognize and treat any maturation disorders at an early stage. These include the U examinations U1-U9. Since May 2006, further U-examinations (U10-U12/J1/J2) have been available in order to be able to accompany children from the age of 6 until puberty. The U-examinations are thus part of a preventive program for children, which is usually covered by health insurance and therefore free of charge for parents (exception U10, U11, J2).
How many U-examinations are there?
The U examinations normally provided for include U1, U2, U3, U4, U5, U6, U7, U7a, U8, U9, U10, U11 as well as the juvenile examinations J1 (often referred to as U12) and J2. At which time the respective U-examinations of the child take place can easily be looked up in the yellow examination booklet of the child. This yellow examination booklet is usually given to the parents when the mother and child are discharged from the hospital after delivery. If there is any uncertainty as to when the next U-examination appointment should take place, it is recommended to contact the treating pediatrician.
Do I have to take my child to the U-examination?
Basically, the U examinations are not mandatory. However, it is highly recommended to visit the regular U-examinations U1-U9 as well as the youth examination J1 at the given times with the child. Only in this way is it possible for pediatricians to detect developmental disorders in the child at an early stage and to treat them quickly. In some German states (Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg and Hesse), however, the preventive examinations are mandatory. This should help to detect neglect and abuse in children more quickly.
