Why is baby poop such a big deal?

Almost all parents have questions about baby poop and digestive health. It's no wonder, considering poop can vary in consistency and color—from hard to soft, black to yellow—and it’s not always clear what’s normal.
"It’s also common for babies to experience periods of grumbling stomachs, but these typically resolve on their own", explains Johan Holmgren, a specialist nurse for children and adolescents at Knodd, who helps us navigate the world of baby poop.

How often should your baby poop?

Newborns

Newborns often poop after every feeding—and sometimes during the night too.

Babies 6–8 weeks old and older

As babies grow, they usually settle into their own pooping routine. The frequency of poopy diapers often decreases, but it varies greatly from one baby to another.
"Some babies poop 10 or more times a day, while others may only go once every 1–2 weeks. As long as your baby seems comfortable, follows their growth curve, and poops without difficulty, the frequency isn’t a concern. Breastfed babies generally poop more frequently and have looser stools than those fed formula", explains Holmgren.

Seek care if:

• Your baby poops less frequently than once every 14 days.
• Your baby appears uncomfortable with dry or hard stools.
• Your baby eats poorly or seems tense and bloated.

What should baby poop look like?

First poop (meconium)

The first poop, usually passed within the first two days after birth, is called meconium.
"Meconium is black, sticky, and tar-like", says Holmgren.

Poop in full-term babies

In full-term breastfed babies, the poop is typically mustard yellow or green, watery, and may appear slightly grainy or frothy. It doesn’t smell particularly bad.

Poop in formula-fed babies

The poop is often firmer and more textured compared to breastfed babies.

Blood in the poop?

Occasional small streaks of blood are usually not a concern.
"If you’re worried, contact your health care provider or pediatrician. However, large amounts of fresh blood should be evaluated immediately", Holmgren advises.

Seek care if:

• The poop is white or clay-colored, which could indicate bile issues.
• When introducing solid foods like bread, temporary white stools can occur, but this is harmless if the baby is otherwise well.

How do you know if your baby has diarrhea?

Diarrhea in young babies is rare, as their stools are naturally loose.
– In older babies, diarrhea is defined as more than three watery stools per day, indicating more fluid is being lost than taken in. Other signs include a change in color, smell, or stool volume, says Holmgren.

Seek medical attention if:

• Your baby shows signs of dehydration (lethargy, no wet diapers).
• Your baby has had diarrhea after traveling abroad.
• Your baby also has a fever or is unusually lethargic.

How do you know if your baby is constipated?

Breastfed babies

Constipation is rare in fully breastfed babies.
"If your baby is otherwise happy and healthy, it’s not unusual for 10–14 days to pass between bowel movements", says Holmgren.

Formula-fed babies

Improperly mixed formula is a common cause of constipation.
"Make sure you follow the mixing instructions precisely. Switching formula types can also affect bowel movements, so monitor how your baby responds to changes", advises Holmgren.

Seek care if:

• Your baby has hard, infrequent stools.
• Your baby struggles to poop or seems to be in pain.
• Your baby passes a lot of stool in one sitting but has difficulty beforehand.

Does a breastfeeding mother’s diet affect baby poop?

It’s a common misconception that a breastfeeding mother’s diet impacts a baby’s stool.
"Generally, foods like dairy or spices don’t cause significant changes in the baby’s digestion. If you’re concerned, speak with your healthcare provider to rule out other factors#, Holmgren reassures.

5 Tips for a Happy Baby Belly

1. Gentle tummy massage: Use circular motions on your baby’s belly to relieve gas and stimulate digestion.
2. Skin-to-skin contact: Holding your baby chest-to-chest applies light pressure to their tummy, helping to ease discomfort and release trapped gas.
3. Anti-colic bottles: These can reduce the amount of air swallowed during feedings, which minimizes tummy aches.
4. Burping valve: A vented pacifier or similar tool can help release gas effectively.
5. Thorough burping after feeds: Ensuring your baby burps well after meals can make a big difference in their comfort.