Poop Diapers: What's Normal For Newborns In First Weeks?

A newborn's poop schedule is a good indicator of their health and well-being. In the first two weeks of life, a newborn may produce five or more dirty diapers a day, while others may go for days without pooping. Breastfed babies tend to poop more frequently than formula-fed babies. It is considered normal for a breastfed newborn to have six or more poops daily in the first six weeks of life. However, some breastfed newborns may only poop once every few days, especially after the first two weeks. Formula-fed babies typically have one to four bowel movements per day and pass fewer but larger stools than breastfed babies.

Frequency of poop diapers for breastfed vs formula-fed newborns

The frequency of a newborn's bowel movements depends on several factors, including their age, diet, and individual differences. During the first few days of life, newborns typically pass meconium, a black, sticky, and tar-like substance. After this initial phase, the frequency of poop diapers can vary.

Breastfed Newborns

Breastfed newborns typically have several bowel movements each day, with an average of three bowel movements per day during the first three months. It is also normal for breastfed newborns to have a stool after each feeding or as little as once every seven days. The stool of breastfed babies is usually softer, more liquid, and seed-like in texture, ranging from yellow to green or brown in colour.

Formula-Fed Newborns

Formula-fed newborns may have fewer bowel movements than their breastfed counterparts. On average, they have two bowel movements per day during the first three months. Formula-fed babies' bowel movements are generally firmer, with a consistency similar to peanut butter. Their stool colour can vary from yellow to tan or green-brown.

It is important to note that the frequency of poop diapers can vary significantly from baby to baby, and there is no "magic number" regarding the ideal number of bowel movements. Parents should pay attention to their baby's routine and consult a paediatrician if they notice any significant deviations or concerns.

What the colour of poop in diapers means

The colour of a newborn's poop can vary depending on their diet and age. Here is a guide to what the different colours of poop may indicate:

Meconium

Meconium is a newborn's first stool, which is typically greenish-black and tarry in appearance. It is produced within the first few days of life and is composed of materials swallowed in utero, such as amniotic fluid, mucus, and lanugo. It is very sticky and may require multiple wipes to clean.

Yellow, Seedy, and Sweet-Smelling

Breastfed babies tend to have mustard-yellow, seedy, and loose stools within their first week of life. This type of stool usually has a sweet smell and is softer in consistency. It may be runny and resemble diarrhoea, but this is normal for breastfed babies.

Tan, Thick, and Strong-Smelling

Formula-fed babies tend to have thicker and darker stools, usually in shades of tan, yellow, or greenish-brown. These stools often have a stronger smell and a consistency similar to peanut butter or hummus.

Green

Green poop can be caused by various factors, such as the introduction of solid foods, certain medications, or the consumption of green vegetables by the baby or breastfeeding parent. It is usually harmless and may simply be a result of normal digestion.

Red

Red streaks in a diaper may indicate the presence of blood in the stool. Small amounts of blood may be due to constipation or tears in the baby's anus. Larger amounts of blood are more concerning and require medical attention.

White, Clay-Coloured, or Chalky

White, clay-coloured, or chalky-looking poop is a rare occurrence and may indicate a liver or gallbladder problem. It could signal that the baby is not producing bile, which gives stool its characteristic colour. This colour requires immediate medical attention.

Black

Black stools in newborns are typically meconium, which is normal. However, black stools after the first few days of life could indicate the presence of blood in the gastrointestinal tract. Very dark green poop may sometimes appear black, so it is important to inspect the colour closely under bright light.

Translucent or Milky

Mucus in baby poop is usually harmless and may be present in small amounts, especially in the first few days of life. However, if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as blood in the stool, diarrhoea, high fever, loss of appetite, vomiting, or weakness, it could indicate an infection or digestive issue.

Brown

As babies grow and their digestive systems develop, their poop tends to gradually become more brownish and solid in consistency. Toddlers' stools are typically softer and more formed, resembling a log or canoe shape.

In summary, while the colour of a newborn's poop can vary and is often influenced by their diet and age, certain colours may indicate potential health issues. It is important for parents to monitor diaper changes and consult a healthcare provider if they have any concerns or notice unusual colours or consistency in their baby's poop.

What to do if your newborn is constipated

A newborn baby's pooping frequency varies, and it's normal for them to pass stool anywhere from every time they eat to every few days. However, if your newborn hasn't passed stool in four days, you should call your pediatrician as it could be a sign of constipation.

If your newborn is formula-fed, try switching to a different brand of formula after consulting with your doctor. Constipation should never be a reason to stop breastfeeding. You can also try adding a little dark fruit juice, such as prune or pear, to your baby's bottle. If your baby is older than four months, you can give them a little extra water (no more than 1-2 ounces per day) after checking with the doctor.

If your baby has started solid foods, try feeding them pureed prunes or peas, or cereal with barley or whole wheat, which are higher in fiber. You can also try bending your baby's knees toward their chest, as it's easier to get poop out in a squat posture than lying flat. Gently massaging their belly, giving them a warm bath, and exercising their legs in a gentle bicycle motion may also help.

If home remedies don't work, there are over-the-counter medications you can try after consulting with your doctor. These include glycerin suppositories, which are placed directly in the anus to stimulate a bowel movement, and laxatives, which should only be used if your doctor recommends them.

How to prevent diaper rash

The number of poop diapers a 2-week-old newborn has can vary depending on their feeding method. Breastfed newborns typically have several bowel movements per day, while formula-fed newborns may have fewer. On average, a baby may have five to six wet diapers each day during their first weeks.

Keep the Diaper Area Clean and Dry

• Change wet or soiled diapers as soon as possible. Disposable diapers with an absorbent gel can help draw moisture away from the skin.
• Rinse your baby's bottom with warm water during each diaper change. Use a sink, tub, or water bottle, and gently clean the skin with moist washcloths, cotton balls, or alcohol and fragrance-free baby wipes.
• Gently pat the skin dry with a clean towel or let it air dry. Avoid scrubbing or using talcum powder.

Apply a Barrier Cream, Paste, or Ointment

• After cleaning and drying the skin, apply a layer of a barrier cream, paste, or ointment with a high percentage of zinc oxide or petroleum jelly.
• You can leave the previous application in place and add another layer on top. If you need to remove it, use mineral oil on a cotton ball.
• Apply petroleum jelly on top of the cream, paste, or ointment to prevent the diaper from sticking to it.

Increase Airflow to the Diaper Area

• Let your baby go without a diaper for short periods, such as during naps, to increase airflow and promote healing.
• Use diapers that are slightly larger than needed until the rash clears up.
• Take a break from using plastic or tight-fitting diaper covers.

Bathe Your Baby Daily

Give your baby a daily bath using warm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap or a gentle non-soap cleanser until the rash clears up.

Choose the Right Diapers and Products

• If you use cloth diapers, try switching to disposable diapers or a different brand.
• If you wash your own cloth diapers, consider changing your detergent to a mild, hypoallergenic one, or add 1/2 cup of vinegar to the rinse cycle.
• Avoid using wipes with fragrances or alcohol. Instead, opt for plain warm water or water with a mild soap or cleanser.
• Be cautious when using commercial products, as some can irritate the skin or make the problem worse. Always check with your pediatrician before trying a new product.

What to do if your newborn has diarrhoea

Newborns tend to have soft, squishy, and frequent bowel movements, so it can be difficult to know if they have diarrhoea. However, if your infant's stool is very runny or larger in size, perhaps even leaking out of their diaper, and is more frequent than usual, then they have diarrhoea.

If your newborn has diarrhoea, there are several steps you can take to manage it and prevent complications:

• Keep your baby hydrated: Continue breastfeeding if you are nursing, as this helps prevent diarrhoea and aids in faster recovery. If you are formula-feeding, prepare the formula as usual and feed your baby.
• Electrolyte drinks: Consult your paediatrician about giving your baby electrolyte drinks like Pedialyte or Infalyte. These can help replace lost fluids and electrolytes, but in most cases, breast milk or formula is sufficient.
• Change diapers frequently: Keep your baby as dry as possible to prevent diaper rash. Clean your baby's bottom with water, and minimise the use of baby wipes while they have diarrhoea.
• Solid foods: If your baby has started solids, offer foods that may help soothe diarrhoea, such as bananas, rice, toast, and potatoes. Avoid foods that can worsen diarrhoea, like cow's milk, apple juice, and other fruit juices.
• Avoid antidiarrheal medication: Do not give your baby any antidiarrheal medication unless specifically advised to do so by your healthcare provider.

It is important to monitor your newborn's diarrhoea and contact your paediatrician if you notice any of the following:

• Dehydration: Signs of dehydration include a dry and sticky mouth, absence of tears when crying, no wet diaper for 6 hours or more, a sunken fontanelle (soft spot on the head), decreased activity, or lethargy.
• Blood in the stool: If you see any blood or mucus in your baby's diarrhoea, contact your doctor immediately.
• Persistent diarrhoea: If your baby's diarrhoea lasts for more than 24 hours or is severe (more than 10 watery stools per day), seek medical attention.
• Other symptoms: If your baby exhibits other signs of illness along with diarrhoea, such as constant stomach pain, vomiting, fever, or decreased activity, contact your paediatrician.

Frequently asked questions