What is the U5 examination?
The U5 examination is a preventive examination that takes place at around six months of age. The pediatrician uses various tests to examine the baby’s mental development, mobility, hearing and vision. He also advises parents on topics such as nutrition and child safety.
What is done at the U5?
As with all check-ups, the doctor carries out a physical examination of the child and measures weight, body length and head circumference. During the U5 examination, the child’s motor development is also important. The pediatrician performs some playful exercises to check the child’s mobility:
- Is the child reaching for a toy?
- Is it supporting itself on its arms in a prone position?
- Does it push its feet against the floor when held over the examination table?
- Does it turn its head in the direction of a sound?
- Can it fixate and follow a point of light with both eyes?
- Can it keep its head stable when sitting?
The doctor will also use an eye mirror to check whether the child is cross-eyed.
U5 examination: What should parents pay particular attention to?
What is the significance of the U5 examination?
If the child does not complete all the exercises at the U5 examination, this is not immediately an indication of a developmental disorder. Not all children develop at the same pace. However, if a squint is detected, the baby will be referred to an ophthalmologist. Depending on the cause, the doctor will then prescribe glasses or start so-called occlusion treatment. This involves alternately taping one of the child’s eyes for a few weeks to train the weaker eye. If it is a case of paralytic strabismus, an operation can help. If the doctor detects impaired hearing during the U5 examination, he or she will refer the child to a pediatric ENT specialist.
