Runny Poop In Newborns: What's Normal And What's Not?

Newborns have unique digestive systems, and their poop can vary in colour and consistency. It can be challenging to determine if a newborn has diarrhoea, as their poop is typically softer and runnier than that of older children. However, if you notice a sudden increase in the frequency and looseness of your newborn's stools, this could indicate diarrhoea. Diarrhoea in newborns can be caused by various factors, including viruses, bacteria, food allergies, formula preparation, and antibiotics. While occasional diarrhoea is normal, persistent or severe cases may indicate an underlying condition and require medical attention.

Diarrhea and dehydration

Diarrhea is a common problem in babies and children, and it is usually mild and brief. Acute diarrhea lasts less than a week and no longer than 14 days. Diarrhea is characterised by more bowel movements than usual, with stools that are less formed and more watery. It is often caused by a virus and goes away on its own. However, it can also be caused by a change in diet, the use of antibiotics, a bacterial infection, or a parasite infection. Diarrhea can be dangerous if not managed properly because it can lead to dehydration.

Dehydration is a serious complication of diarrhea and is caused by a loss of body fluids, specifically water and salts. Children, especially babies and toddlers, can become dehydrated very quickly, and it can be life-threatening. Signs of dehydration include decreased urination (fewer than four wet diapers in 24 hours for infants and fewer than three wet diapers in 24 hours for older children), dry skin, mouth, and tongue, and a sunken soft spot on the baby's head. If you suspect your child is dehydrated, it is important to seek medical advice or see a doctor right away.

To prevent dehydration, it is crucial to ensure that your child is getting enough fluids. If you are breastfeeding, continue to feed on demand and offer your child their usual foods. If you are formula feeding, do not dilute the formula and continue to offer your child their normal diet. If your child is not breastfeeding or formula feeding, offer a variety of fluids frequently, in addition to their regular foods. Oral rehydration solutions (ORS), such as Pedialyte, are specifically designed to help with dehydration and can be given in addition to breastfeeding or formula feeding. These solutions contain the right amounts of water, sugar, and salt to help with dehydration and can be bought at pharmacies or drug stores.

In addition to fluids, it is important to provide your child with bland, easily digestible foods. Starchy foods such as cereal, crackers, rice, and pasta are good options. Avoid sugary drinks, fruit juices, carbonated drinks, and sweetened tea, as these can make diarrhea worse. Talk to your doctor before giving your child any over-the-counter medications to stop diarrhea.

Breastfed vs formula-fed babies' poop

Newborns typically have runny poop for the first few weeks of life. After that, the consistency of a baby's poop depends on whether they are breastfed or formula-fed.

Breastfed vs Formula-Fed Babies Poop

Breastfed babies tend to have more frequent bowel movements than formula-fed babies. This is because breast milk is easier to digest than formula. During the first three months after birth, it is normal for breastfed babies to have multiple bowel movements per day. On average, they have three bowel movements per day. It is also normal for a breastfed baby to have a stool after each feeding or as little as once every seven days.

The stool of breastfed babies is typically seedy and loose, with a mustard-like colour and texture. It may also be runnier, which is a sign that the baby is absorbing the solids in the breast milk.

Formula-fed babies, on the other hand, tend to have firmer and more paste-like bowel movements. The consistency is often compared to peanut butter. Their poop is usually browner than that of breastfed babies, ranging from yellow-brown to tan-brown, and green-brown.

After the first three months, it is normal for the frequency of bowel movements to decrease for both breastfed and formula-fed babies.

When to See a Doctor

While most variations in baby poop colour and consistency are normal, there are some instances where you should seek medical advice. If your baby has red or bloody stools; black, tarry stools or white stools, contact your doctor right away. You should also seek medical advice if the bowel movements are especially watery, dry, hard, or difficult to pass.

Causes of runny poop

There are many reasons why newborns may experience runny poop, and it is important to monitor your newborn's diapers as waste can tell you a lot about their health and whether they are consuming enough milk. Here are some of the most common causes of runny poop in newborns:

Breastfed Babies

Breastfed babies tend to have softer and more watery stools than formula-fed babies. This is because they are absorbing the solids in breast milk. Changes in the mother's diet can also trigger runny poop in breastfed babies. For example, consuming spicy food or sugar, or taking certain medications and supplements, can change the composition of breast milk and cause runny poop in newborns.

Formula-Fed Babies

Formula-fed babies may experience runny poop due to the type of formula they are given. Some babies may find certain formulas harder to digest, leading to tummy cramps, gas, and runny poop. Changes in formula or the introduction of solids can also cause runny stools as the baby's digestive system adjusts.

Infections

Infections, such as viral or bacterial infections, are a common cause of runny poop in newborns. Viruses are one of the most common reasons for acute diarrhea in infants. Bacterial infections, such as salmonella, staphylococcus, and shigella, can also cause runny stools.

Food Allergies and Intolerances

Food allergies or intolerances can also lead to runny poop in newborns. For example, a cow's milk allergy or lactose intolerance can cause diarrhea, vomiting, or other symptoms. However, it is uncommon for babies under one year old to be allergic to cow's milk.

Medications

Certain medications, such as antibiotics, can cause runny poop in newborns. Antibiotics can get into breast milk and trigger diarrhea, or they can be prescribed to treat bacterial infections, leading to loose stools.

Other Causes

In rare cases, runny poop in newborns can be a sign of a more serious illness, such as neuroendocrine tumors or cystic fibrosis. Additionally, conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract, such as necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), can cause both diarrhea and constipation.

Effects of runny poop

Runny poop, or diarrhea, in newborns can have several effects on their health. Here are some key points to consider:

Dehydration

The most common and serious complication of diarrhea is dehydration. Diarrhea causes the body to lose fluids and electrolytes rapidly, which can lead to dehydration within a day or two. Newborns are particularly vulnerable to dehydration and it can be dangerous for them. Signs of dehydration include decreased urine output (no urine in over 8 hours), dark-coloured urine, dry mouth and eyes, decreased skin elasticity, and a sunken soft spot on the top of the head.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Runny poop can be a sign of the body's inability to absorb nutrients properly. This can lead to nutritional deficiencies, especially if the condition persists or occurs frequently.

Diaper Rash

The frequent passage of loose stools can irritate the skin and lead to diaper rash. It is important to change diapers frequently, clean the baby's bottom with water, and use ointments to protect the skin.

Discomfort and Irritability

Diarrhea can cause discomfort and irritability in newborns. They may become fussy, tired, or act sick.

Contagion

Diarrhea caused by a viral or bacterial infection is highly contagious. It can spread through contact with unclean surfaces, food, or water. Proper hygiene and handwashing are crucial to prevent the spread of infection.

Long-term Effects

While rare, runny poop in newborns can sometimes be a symptom of more serious underlying conditions such as cystic fibrosis or lactose intolerance. If the condition persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to seek medical advice.

What to do about runny poop

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Frequently asked questions