APGAR Score Calculator (Newborn)
The APGAR score is a rapid assessment of a newborn at 1 and 5 minutes after birth, scoring five signs — Appearance, Pulse, Grimace, Activity and Respiration — each 0 to 2, for a total of 0 to 10. A score of 7 or above is reassuring.
Quick answer
The APGAR score assesses a newborn at 1 and 5 minutes after birth by scoring five signs — Appearance (colour), Pulse (heart rate), Grimace (reflex), Activity (muscle tone) and Respiration — each 0 to 2, for a total of 0 to 10. A score of 7 or above is reassuring.
APGAR signs (score each 0–2)
Reassuring (7–10)
The APGAR score is 10/10: reassuring (7–10). The APGAR is recorded at 1 and 5 minutes after birth (and every 5 minutes if low). 7–10 is reassuring, 4–6 is moderately depressed, and 0–3 is severely depressed.
The APGAR describes the newborn's condition and response to resuscitation; it is not designed to predict long-term outcome on its own. A low 1-minute score often improves by 5 minutes. Care decisions belong to the clinical team.
How to use the APGAR calculator
- 1Score each of the five signs. For Appearance, Pulse, Grimace, Activity and Respiration, select 0, 1 or 2 based on the newborn’s response.
- 2Read the total. The tool adds the five signs for a total out of 10.
- 3Repeat at 1 and 5 minutes. The APGAR is normally recorded at 1 and 5 minutes (and continued every 5 minutes if low). 7–10 is reassuring, 4–6 moderately depressed, 0–3 severely depressed.
Medical disclaimer: This is general health information, not medical advice. It does not diagnose or treat any condition, and the results are estimates based on public reference formulas. Always consult a qualified doctor about your individual health. If you think you may have a medical emergency, contact your local emergency services immediately.
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Book a consultationFrequently asked questions
What is a normal APGAR score?⌄
A score of 7 to 10 at 1 and 5 minutes is considered reassuring. Scores of 4–6 are moderately low and 0–3 are severely low, prompting support and reassessment.
Does a low 1-minute APGAR mean my baby is unwell?⌄
Not necessarily. A low 1-minute score often improves by 5 minutes. The APGAR describes the newborn’s condition and response to resuscitation; it is not designed to predict long-term outcome on its own.
What do the letters in APGAR stand for?⌄
Appearance (colour), Pulse (heart rate), Grimace (reflex irritability), Activity (muscle tone) and Respiration (breathing effort) — a mnemonic that also matches Virginia Apgar’s name.
Sources & validation
This calculator reproduces the published APGAR score, validated for rapid assessment of newborn condition at 1 and 5 minutes after birth.
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