What a pediatrician does
A pediatrician is a doctor who looks after the health of babies, children and adolescents, from birth to about 18 years. Training is MBBS followed by an MD, DNB or DCH in Paediatrics. Children are not small adults: their illnesses, medicine doses, growth needs and emotional development all differ, which is why a specialist's advice matters.
Pediatricians provide newborn care, growth and development monitoring, vaccinations, nutrition advice, and treatment of common illnesses such as fever, cough and cold, ear infections, diarrhoea, asthma and allergies. They also identify and refer developmental delays, learning or behaviour concerns, and chronic conditions needing a sub-specialist.
When to see a pediatrician
- Newborn check-ups, feeding or weight-gain concerns, and persistent jaundice.
- Routine vaccinations according to the national or IAP schedule.
- Fever lasting more than two to three days, or any fever in a baby under three months.
- Cough with fast breathing or wheeze, persistent vomiting or diarrhoea with dehydration.
- Poor growth, delayed milestones, speech delay or behaviour concerns.
- Recurrent infections, rashes or allergies.
Seek emergency care for breathing difficulty, seizures, a child who is hard to wake, severe dehydration, or a fever with a stiff neck or rash that does not fade.
Vaccination matters
Vaccines protect against serious diseases such as polio, measles, rubella, hepatitis B, diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, rotavirus and pneumococcal infection. The Government of India's Universal Immunisation Programme provides many vaccines free of charge, and the Indian Academy of Pediatrics recommends additional vaccines such as typhoid conjugate, HPV and influenza. Your pediatrician will advise a schedule and keep a record.
Tests children may need
Most illnesses need only an examination. When required, doctors may advise a CBC, CRP, urine routine, stool test, dengue or typhoid tests, vitamin D or thyroid screening, and, for growth concerns, specific hormone tests. Medicines must be given in the right dose by weight; avoid giving adult medicines or antibiotics without a prescription.
Consultation costs
Pediatrician fees commonly range from about ₹400 to ₹1,200 and may vary by city and clinic. Vaccine prices differ by brand and clinic, so ask beforehand, and check which vaccines are free through government centres.
Choosing a pediatrician
- Check MD/DNB/DCH qualification and registration.
- Choose someone patient with parents' questions and clear on when to call.
- For newborn or very sick children, prefer a hospital with NICU/PICU facilities.
- Keep the child's vaccination card and growth chart handy.
Healthy childhood basics
Breastfeed exclusively for the first six months, start complementary foods at six months, ensure active play, limit screen time, make handwashing routine and keep vaccinations up to date. Online consultation suits many follow-ups and minor illnesses. Compare child specialists and book on Lab Dekho.
Trusted References
This guide is original content informed by recognised medical and public-health sources. For further reading:
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Costs and fees are approximate and vary by provider. Institution names are given for orientation only; check current services and timings directly. In an emergency, call 108 or 112.