APGAR Score Calculator

 

The APGAR Score Calculator quickly evaluates a newborn’s condition right after birth. This simple tool uses five health checks—skin color, heart rate, reflexes, muscle tone, and breathing. Each area is scored from 0 to 2 points, with a total score between 0 and 10. A higher score means the baby is in better health.

What is the APGAR Score?

The APGAR score was created by Dr. Virginia Apgar in 1952 as a quick way to check a baby’s health. It looks at five key areas and assigns a score for each, to help doctors and nurses decide if the baby needs extra care.

The Five APGAR Checks:

  1. Skin Color (Appearance)

    • 0 points: Pale or blue all over.
    • 1 point: Pink body, but blue hands or feet.
    • 2 points: Fully pink.

  2. Heart Rate (Pulse)

    • 0 points: No pulse.
    • 1 point: Heart rate under 100 beats per minute.
    • 2 points: Heart rate over 100 beats per minute.

  3. Reflex Response (Grimace)

    • 0 points: No response to a touch or other stimuli.
    • 1 point: Weak response, like a small grimace.
    • 2 points: Strong response, such as crying.

  4. Muscle Tone (Activity)

    • 0 points: Limp, no movement.
    • 1 point: Some movement or flexing.
    • 2 points: Active movement.

  5. Breathing (Respiration)

    • 0 points: No breathing.
    • 1 point: Slow or irregular breathing.
    • 2 points: Good, strong cry.

APGAR Score Meaning

The total APGAR score helps doctors know if the baby needs any special attention:

  • 7–10 points: Generally good health.
  • 4–6 points: May need some help with breathing or other care.
  • 0–3 points: Needs immediate medical care.

This score gives a quick overview but does not replace a full medical checkup. If you’re concerned about your result, please talk to a healthcare provider for more advice.

Note: The APGAR score can vary if the baby was born early or if the mother had certain medications. This calculator is for general information and does not diagnose conditions.