Baby Poo Colours - What's Normal? And What's Not?

New moms! By now you should know that a fed baby is a happy baby, and what goes in must come out. You might have found yourself examining your baby’s nappy as if it holds the answers to the universe, and maybe it does… Believe it or not, it’s a good idea to pay attention to the contents of your baby's nappy, as their poop colour can actually provide you with important clues as to what’s happening in their little body. First up you should know that your baby’s poop colour and texture will change from time to time. Depending on whether your baby is breastfed, bottle-fed, or solids are maybe being introduced, these variables should all be considered. So no need to go into full-on panic mode, we’re going to give you the scoop on what’s normal and when you should pay attention. Let’s have a look at different baby poop colours and what they mean.

The New Mom's Guide To Baby Poop

Black is a healthy colour for newborn babies younger than a week old. This thick sticky tar-like substance is called meconium. This shows that the bowels are working well, which is a good sign. Any meconium after the first week could be a problem, so go and see your doctor if this continues. This is normal, as your baby gets older their poop will change as well. With the introduction of various foods, their poop will be more “grown-up.” Absolutely normal in breastfed babies, this poop tends to be a bit runny and might contain “seeds”, but don’t stress this is normal and healthy. Formula-fed babies tend to have a darker poop and the consistency is a bit firmer, more like peanut butter. So keep calm and carry on! This happens occasionally when your baby switches breasts too quickly and only gets the foremilk. Nurse baby until the breast is drained before switching, this ensures that baby is satiated. Sometimes babies who are formula-fed tend to have dark green poop because of the iron in the formula. This is also common in babies who are starting solid foods that are green in colours, such as spinach and peas. It’s all good! Again this is also normal as you introduce solid foods to your baby’s diet. Orange poop is normal, especially if there are no other symptoms. It is a sign that your baby's digestive system is doing what it should, and the various colours of solid food that your baby might be taking in. Again nothing to lose your head about.

Remember, You Know Your Baby Best

While we covered most of the colours of poop that your baby might offer you, you must know that all babies are different and you know your baby best, so if ever in doubt please go and see your doctor immediately.

Don't Panic And Smell The Fresh Air

If you found this guide handy or have anything to add, we would love to hear from all you new and experienced parents.  Share your funny or scary story about your little one's poop changing colour in the comments below. Who knows other parents might learn from it and you could help put a fellow parent at ease!

Drypers Wee Wee Dry Nappies are perfect for keeping your baby dry and comfortable, and not letting any surprises leak out the sides. If you have a wriggly baby, then our Drypantz pull-up nappy pants work even better.

 

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• Top Solutions To Prevent Leaks In Your Baby’s Nappy
• Common Questions New Moms Are Too Afraid To Ask
• How Often Should I Change My Baby’s Nappy?
• The New Moms Guide to Newborn Navel Care