Regular examinations for children according to the German model
The so-called U-examinations (preventive check-ups) are an important part of health care for children and adolescents in Germany. These examinations serve the early detection of developmental disorders, diseases, and abnormalities. The following guide provides a detailed overview of each U-examination, its contents, the optimal timing, and the places where they are conducted.
At the German Clinic Marbella, we perform all U-examinations – contact us!
Pediatrician in Marbella DR. Rocío Estella
As a pediatrician in Marbella, my professional ethos focuses on understanding your needs as parents, caring for your children’s health, and offering you a close and trusting treatment.
I look forward to seeing you at the IMED German Clinic. Schedule an appointment today!
Overview of the U-Examinations
The U-examinations are staggered according to the child’s age and range from birth to 18 years. Each examination has specific goals and contents, which are described in more detail below.
U1: Newborn Initial Examination
When: Immediately after birth
Where: In the delivery room or birthing room
What is examined:
– Checking breathing, heartbeat, reflexes, skin color, and muscle tone
– Assignment of the Apgar score
– Assessment of the general health condition
Goal: Immediate detection of life-threatening conditions and initial assessment of the newborn’s vitality
U2: Newborn Basic Examination
When: 3rd to 10th day of life
Where: In the maternity clinic or with our pediatrician
What is examined:
– Complete physical check-up
– Screening for congenital metabolic disorders (newborn screening)
– Checking reflexes, hearing test
Goal: Early detection of congenital diseases and developmental disorders
U3: Early Detection Examination
When: 4th to 5th week of life
Where: With our pediatrician
What is examined:
– Checking growth (weight, length, head circumference)
– Assessment of age-appropriate development of reflexes
– Monitoring motor skills and sensory organs
– Inquiry about feeding, digestion, and sleep patterns
– Examination for hip dysplasia using ultrasound
Goal: Monitoring physical development and detecting hip problems
U4: Early Detection Examination
When: 3rd to 4th month of life
Where: With our pediatrician
What is examined:
– Monitoring age-appropriate growth and development
– Examination of the child’s mobility and reactions
– Checking sensory perceptions (sight and hearing)
– Examination of the genitals and skin
Goal: Early detection of developmental delays and sensory disorders
U5: Early Detection Examination
When: 6th to 7th month of life
Where: With our pediatrician
What is examined:
– Assessment of physical development and motor skills
– Checking sensory organs and reflexes
– Monitoring nutritional status
– Examination of the genitals and skin
Goal: Ensuring age-appropriate development and detecting possible abnormalities
U6: Early Detection Examination
When: 10th to 12th month of life (1st year)
Where: With our pediatrician
What is examined:
– Checking growth and motor skills
– Monitoring language development and social interaction
– Reviewing vaccination status
– Examination of interaction
Goal: Monitoring development and preparing for the second year of life
U7: Early Detection Examination
When: 21st to 24th month of life (2nd year)
Where: With our pediatrician
What is examined:
– Assessment of growth and motor skills
– Detection of vision problems
– Monitoring language development and social skills
– Checking vaccination status
Goal: Early detection of developmental delays and behavioral abnormalities
U7a: Additional Early Detection Examination
When: 34th to 36th month of life (3rd year)
Where: With our pediatrician
What is examined:
– Focus on age-appropriate language development
– Monitoring growth and development
– Checking social skills
– Screening for visual and auditory disorders
Goal: Supporting preparation for kindergarten and early detection of abnormalities
U8: Early Detection Examination
When: 46th to 48th month of life (4th year)
Where: With our pediatrician
What is examined:
– Checking growth, motor skills, and language development
– Monitoring sensory organs
– Assessing cognitive and social development
– Evaluating muscle strength and dental status
Goal: Ensuring school readiness and early detection of developmental problems
U9: Early Detection Examination
When: 60th to 64th month of life (5th year)
Where: With our pediatrician
What is examined:
– Checking growth, motor skills, and language development
– Monitoring sensory organs
– Assessing cognitive and social skills
Goal: Preparing for school and detecting developmental disorders
U10: Additional Early Detection Examination
When: 7th to 8th year of life
Where: With our pediatrician
What is examined:
– Checking growth and development
– Monitoring academic performance and social interactions
– Screening for behavioral abnormalities and learning disorders, such as dyslexia
– Evaluating behavioral disorders, such as ADHD
Goal: Supporting academic development and detecting learning problems
U11: Additional Early Detection Examination
When: 9th to 10th year of life
Where: With our pediatrician
What is examined:
– Checking growth and development
– Monitoring academic performance and social interactions
– Screening for behavioral abnormalities and learning disorders
Goal: Supporting academic development and detecting learning problems
J1: Youth Health Examination
When: 12th to 14th year of life
Where: With our pediatrician or general practitioner
What is examined:
– Examination of general health and growth development
– Checking organs and skeletal system
– Assessment of vaccination status
– Evaluation of puberty development
– Assessment of mental development and detection of psychological abnormalities
– Identification of academic performance issues
– Detection of health-risk behaviors (smoking, alcohol, and drug use)
Goal: Supporting physical and psychosocial development during adolescence
J2: Youth Health Examination
When: 16th to 17th year of life
Where: With our pediatrician or general practitioner
What is examined:
– Assessment of growth and physical development
– Monitoring of puberty development
– Advice on health-related topics, career choice, and vaccination status
Goal: Supporting physical and psychosocial development during the transition to adulthood
Conducting the Examinations
The U-examinations are essential for the early detection and treatment of health and developmental issues in children and adolescents. Especially in the early years of life, children make significant progress, so it is crucial to regularly check their general health and age-appropriate development. This helps to identify and address potential problems early on.
The U-examinations include not only specific screenings but also physical examinations and consultations with parents. Depending on the child’s age, various parameters such as weight, body length, development, organ function, and musculoskeletal system are checked. The developmental assessment covers gross and fine motor skills, perception, cognition, as well as the child’s social and emotional competence and interaction with the parents. If a disease is suspected, the doctor will provide further diagnostics and treatment.
In addition to disease prevention, the doctor assesses the child’s individual stressors and health risks and advises parents accordingly. The vaccination status is also reviewed and improved if necessary. Medical vaccination counseling is mandatory before starting daycare.
All examinations are documented in the yellow children’s health booklet. Parents should consistently attend the examinations and collaborate with the pediatrician to support their child’s optimal development.
Most U-examinations take place in the practice of a private pediatrician. In Marbella, we are pleased to welcome you and your child to our pediatrician, Dr. Rocío Estella. In specific cases, such as U1 and partly U2, the examination is conducted in the birth clinic. It is important to plan and attend preventive appointments in a timely manner to ensure comprehensive health monitoring. Please feel free to contact us; we look forward to seeing you and your family!
