Final answer:
Maya's growth is within a healthy range according to her weight-for-length measurements on the WHO chart. Monitoring a baby's growth involves regular assessment against percentile curves. Both under- and over-growth can pose health risks, emphasizing the importance of consistent growth monitoring.
Step-by-step explanation:
Maya's weight-for-length measurements, when plotted on the WHO growth chart, indicate her growth is within a healthy range. A baby's growth is monitored by comparing weight and length to standard values for infants of the same age. For Maya, being above the 2nd percentile for the first four months and then above the 5th percentile at 6 and 9 months suggests she is on a normal growth trajectory.
It is important to consider consistent growth over time rather than focusing solely on specific weight and length values. Babies who grow too slowly or too quickly may face health risks like undernourishment or obesity later in life. Regular doctor visits are crucial for ensuring a baby's growth is on track.
In general, a newborn's weight is expected to double in six months and triple in one year, with average lengths increasing significantly over the first two years of life as referenced by the WHO Multicentre Growth Reference Study Group.