Baby Poo Types
Baby poop types vary among different of different ages. For this reason, baby poo is termed normal depending on the baby’s age and feeding method. Some of the poo types to expect at different ages are such as:
- Baby’s First Poop – The first poop for your baby is expected to be greenish-black, sticky tarry, and resembles motor oil. This kind of poop is known as meconium and is composed of amniotic fluid, water, skin cells, and other things your baby ingested while in the uterus. This continues for about two to four days and later starts to become lighter and more watery. See what more to expect in the first 24 hrs of a baby.
- Breastfeeding Baby Poo – When your baby is exclusively breastfeeding, it is expected that they will have a yellow or slightly green poop. The poop may be runny and may even resemble diarrhoea. Breastfeeding poop also smells sweet.
- Formula Fed Baby Poop – Formula fed babies are expected to have a poop with a brown shade and a pasty consistency. These babies are also expected to pass bigger, fewer and more odorous stools as compared to the exclusively breastfed babies.
How Often Should The Baby Poo?
For the first four to six weeks, your baby is expected to poop almost after every feeding. This is regardless of whether they are breastfeeding, using formula or both. However, as the digestive tract develops, the poop habits may change. For a breastfeeding baby, it is normal for them to poo a few times in a day or even not poo at all for two or three days. However, babies feeding on formula and solids are expected to poo at least once a day. In case you realize that they have not pooped for about two days, they could have gas. Check out for signs of constipation.
Baby Diarrhea
In case you realize that the baby poo becomes frequent and softer, it is likely that they have diarrhoea. This could be from an infection or inability to digest some nutrients in the food. Consult a doctor in case diarrhoea becomes excess or you realize other symptoms such as fever, decreased activities, refusal to eat among other unusual habits.
How to Ease Constipation
If your baby is breastfeeding, consider increasing your fluid intake and adjust your diet as your baby could be reacting to something you’re eating. If on solids, incorporate foods such as cereals and wholegrain bread which have high fibre. You can encourage older children to eat the skins of fruits too.
How to Ease Diarrhoea
Doctors recommend that you do not treat your child with over the counter medicine. If your baby has severe diarrhoea, he may need to get intravenous fluid to prevent dehydration. Following tests, your child will be treated accordingly.
References
https://www.unitypoint.org/blankchildrens/article.aspx?id=40567710-74c7-4ef2-a040-847be9fbd35a
https://www.todaysparent.com/baby/baby-health/guide-infant-poop/
https://www.parents.com/baby/diapers/dirty/baby-poop-guide/
https://www.webmd.com/parenting/baby/baby-constipation
https://similac.com/baby-feeding/tolerance/constipation-diarrhea
Disclaimers:
#Please note that development differs from one child to another
# Content intended for educational purposes only, and should not be substituted for medical advice from your doctor.
Last reviewed January 2019
Sources: unitypoint, todaysparent, parents, webmd, similac
