
Parenthood comes with a lot of worries, especially when it comes to the health and well-being of your baby. One common concern is the frequency of their bowel movements. In the early days of a newborn's life, their bowel movements can vary greatly. While some babies poop after every feeding, others may go several days without a bowel movement. This is because their digestive systems are still developing, and breast milk or formula is efficiently absorbed, leaving less waste to be expelled.
For exclusively breastfed babies, it is normal to go several days without a bowel movement, as breast milk is easily digested and leaves minimal waste. Some breastfed babies may even go a week or two without a bowel movement after six weeks of age. Formula-fed babies typically have one bowel movement per day or every other day, although it's normal for them to go a couple of days without pooping as well.
If your baby hasn't pooped in a while, pay attention to their mood and behaviour. If they seem content and playful, there is usually no cause for concern. However, if they appear fussy, uncomfortable, or lose their appetite, they might be constipated. Other signs of constipation include hard, dry stools; excessive straining or crying during bowel movements; and abdominal discomfort, such as clenching their fists or arching their back.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Breastfed baby pooping frequency | After every feeding, or once a week |
Formula-fed baby pooping frequency | Once a day to several times a day |
Baby constipation causes | Powdered formula, dietary changes, allergy/food intolerance, lack of fluid/dehydration, physical abnormalities, underlying medical conditions |
Baby constipation signs | Crying in pain, grunting, bloating, more spit-up, fussiness, hard or pebble-like poop |
Baby constipation remedies | Bicycle legs, warm water bath, tummy massage, change in formula, dietary adjustments |
When to call the doctor | Baby hasn't pooped in a week, bloody or black stool, refusal to eat, signs of dehydration, weight loss, bowel movements like rabbit droppings, yellow or green vomit |
What You'll Learn
Breastfed newborns may not poop for days or even a week
It is normal for breastfed newborns to go several days without pooping, and they may even go a week or two without a single bowel movement after six weeks of age. This is because breast milk is easily digested and efficiently absorbed, leaving minimal waste to be expelled. As long as your breastfed newborn is feeding well, gaining weight, and doesn't seem uncomfortable, there is usually no cause for concern.
In the early days of a newborn's life, their bowel movements can vary greatly. Some babies may poop after every feeding, while others may go several days without a bowel movement. This variation is due to the immaturity of their gastrocolic reflex, which signals the colon to empty when the stomach stretches with food. As newborns grow, their stool schedule will change, and they will typically poop less frequently.
Breastfed newborns tend to have softer stools that are easier to pass, and their digestive systems are generally more efficient at absorbing nutrients from breast milk. As a result, they may not need to poop as often as formula-fed babies. However, it is important to monitor your breastfed newborn's bowel movements and be aware of any signs of constipation, such as hard, dry stools, excessive straining, or abdominal discomfort. If your breastfed newborn hasn't had a bowel movement for more than a week, it is recommended to seek medical attention.
While it is normal for breastfed newborns to go several days or even a week without pooping, it is important to pay attention to their overall well-being. If they seem content, playful, and are feeding and gaining weight as expected, there is likely no cause for concern. However, if they appear fussy, uncomfortable, or lose their appetite, they may be constipated. In such cases, it is advisable to consult a pediatrician for guidance.
Understanding Newborn Bloody Discharge: What's Normal?
You may want to see also
Formula-fed newborns typically poop 3-5 times a day
It's understandable for new parents to worry about their newborn's bowel movements, especially when they go a few days without pooping. However, it's important to remember that the frequency of bowel movements in infants can vary widely and still be considered normal.
Formula-fed newborns typically have fewer bowel movements than breastfed babies, and this is usually anywhere between 3-5 times a day during the first few weeks of life. This is because formula causes stool to move through the intestines at a slower rate compared to breast milk, resulting in larger and smellier stools.
After the first six weeks, it's common for formula-fed babies to have one bowel movement every day or every other day. However, it's important to monitor your baby's bowel movements and be aware of any signs of constipation, such as hard, dry stools, excessive straining or crying during bowel movements, and abdominal discomfort.
If your formula-fed newborn hasn't pooped in two days, it might be a cause for concern, especially if this is unusual for them. However, frequency isn't always a telltale sign, and other signs of constipation should be considered. These include the texture of the stool, which may be hard and pebble-like, and your baby's behaviour, such as increased fussiness and discomfort.
If you're concerned about your baby's bowel movements, it's always best to consult with a pediatrician. They can provide guidance and recommendations tailored to your baby's needs.
The Length of a Newborn's Legs: What's Normal?
You may want to see also
Signs of constipation in newborns
While it's normal for newborns to go a few days without pooping, there are some signs to look out for that may indicate constipation.
Hard, Dry Stools
If your baby's stools are dry, pellet-like, or difficult to pass, it could be a sign of constipation. Normally, a newborn's poop should be soft and may be yellow, green, or brown in colour.
Straining
Excessive straining or crying during bowel movements may be a sign of constipation. Newborns can be gassy and may turn red or seem like they are straining to poop, which is normal. However, if your baby is in pain or is crying during bowel movements, this could indicate constipation.
Abdominal Discomfort
Constipation may cause your baby to be irritable or uncomfortable. They may seem fussier than usual due to stomach pain. You may also notice them clenching their fists or arching their back.
Blood in Stool
If you notice any blood on the outside of your baby's stools, this could be due to a small tear on the outside of the rectum, which can cause pain and withholding, making the constipation worse. Blood in the stool should always prompt a call to your pediatrician.
Soiling Between Bowel Movements
Soiling, or liquid waste leakage, between bowel movements may be a sign of constipation. This can happen when the stool stays inside for too long, causing the bowel movement to be painful, and your baby may try to hold it in, making the constipation worse.
No Bowel Movement for Several Days
If your baby hasn't had a bowel movement in several days, it's important to monitor their behaviour and mood. If they seem content and playful as usual, it may not be a cause for concern. However, if they seem more fussy or uncomfortable, especially after feedings, they may be constipated.
If you notice any of these signs of constipation in your newborn, it's important to monitor their bowel movements and consult your pediatrician if the issue persists or if you are concerned.
Concerned About Newborn Spitting Up Blood?
You may want to see also
When to seek medical attention
While it is normal for newborns to go a few days without pooping, there are some instances where you should seek medical attention.
Firstly, if your newborn baby is under six weeks old and is not pooping at all, or is very rarely pooping, you should see a doctor immediately. This could be a sign of an underlying health issue. Check for other symptoms such as arching their back as if in pain, or pulling their legs up to their stomach and crying, which could indicate stomach pain.
Secondly, if your baby, regardless of their feeding method, has not had a bowel movement for more than a week, you should seek medical attention. This is especially important if they are showing signs of discomfort or passing hard, pellet-like stools, as this could indicate constipation.
Thirdly, if there is blood in your baby's stool, whether it is bright red or dark, you should call your pediatrician right away. This could signal an underlying issue such as a milk protein allergy or an intestinal problem.
Additionally, if your baby is persistently vomiting or displaying fussiness, along with the absence of bowel movements, this could indicate a blockage or other gastrointestinal issue, and you should seek medical advice.
Finally, if your baby is formula-fed, poops less than once a day, and appears to be straining, this could be a sign of constipation, and you should talk to a doctor.
Big Testicles on Newborns: Is It Normal?
You may want to see also
Home remedies to relieve constipation
It is not unusual for newborns to go several days without pooping, and this is usually not a cause for concern. However, constipation can sometimes occur, and there are several home remedies that can help relieve this.
Bicycle Legs
One way to relieve constipation is to place your baby on their back and move their legs in a circular motion, mimicking the motion of pedalling on a bicycle. This can help relieve belly pressure and stimulate the bowels to move.
Warm Bath or Washcloth
A warm bath or placing a warm washcloth on the baby's belly can help relax their abdominal muscles, reducing strain and relieving discomfort.
Dietary Changes
If your baby is formula-fed, you may want to try switching to a different brand or type of formula, such as one designed for sensitive stomachs or one that is low-lactose. If your baby is breastfed, you may want to try eliminating dairy from your diet to see if this helps.
Tummy Massage
With your baby on their back, place your hands on their tummy and gently massage in a clockwise circular motion. You can use baby lotion or coconut oil during the massage, which should last for about 3-5 minutes.
Fruit Juice
If your baby is over six months old and eating solid foods, you can try giving them 1-2 ounces of 100% fruit juice, such as prune, pear, or apple juice. The sugar in the juice is hard to digest, so more liquid enters the intestines, increasing the frequency and water content of stools. However, always check with your paediatrician before giving your baby juice for the first time.
Other Dietary Changes
If your baby is eating solid foods, try incorporating more high-fibre foods into their diet, such as pureed broccoli or carrots, whole grains (e.g. oatmeal, wheat, or barley cereal), and pureed peaches, pears, or prunes.
Rectal Temperature
In some cases, a doctor may recommend taking your baby's rectal temperature with a clean, lubricated thermometer to help stimulate a bowel movement. However, this method should not be used frequently, as it can make constipation worse.
It is important to monitor your baby's bowel movements and be aware of the signs of constipation. If home remedies do not provide relief, or if you notice any signs of discomfort or distress in your baby, be sure to consult your paediatrician for further advice and guidance.
Life Jackets for Newborns: When and Why You Need Them
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Yes, newborns tend to poop after every feeding, sometimes as much as eight to ten times a day. This is because their gastrocolic reflex is immature, so their colon is signalled to empty whenever their stomach stretches with food.
Breastfed newborns can go several days or even a week or two without pooping after six weeks of age. Formula-fed newborns should poop at least once every couple of days.
If your newborn is happy and healthy, there is no need to worry. However, if they seem uncomfortable, especially after feedings, or if they have hard stool, they may be constipated. Other signs of constipation include slight bleeding after bowel movements, refusal to eat, and strained faces while pooping.
There are several things you can try to help relieve constipation, such as giving them a warm bath, massaging their tummy, or offering a few ounces of prune juice to help loosen their stools.
If you are concerned about your newborn's pooping habits or if they have gone a full week or more without pooping, it is best to consult your doctor. They may want to evaluate your baby and check for any underlying issues, such as a milk protein allergy.