As a parent, it’s natural to worry about every little detail when it comes to your baby’s health — and that includes what ends up in their nappy. You may find yourself asking, “Is my baby’s poo normal?” Whether you’re breastfeeding, formula-feeding, or starting solids, your baby’s stools can vary greatly in colour, consistency, and frequency.
At Bright Futures Health, we understand that parents need clear answers and expert advice. In this guide, we’ll explain what’s normal, what’s not, and when you should see a paediatrician about your baby’s poo.
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What Should My Baby’s Poo Look Like?
Normal baby poo can vary in colour and consistency depending on their age and diet. Here’s what you can expect:
✅ Newborn Poo (Meconium)
• Colour: Dark greenish-black and tar-like
• Consistency: Sticky and thick
• Frequency: Within the first 24-48 hours after birth
This type of poo is made up of amniotic fluid, mucus, and skin cells your baby ingested while in the womb. It’s perfectly normal and will change once feeding is established.
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How Is Breastfed Baby Poo Different from Formula-Fed Baby Poo?
The type of feeding your baby receives can significantly impact their stools.
🍼 Breastfed Baby Poo
• Colour: Mustard yellow, sometimes greenish
• Consistency: Soft, creamy, or even runny
• Frequency: 3-4 times a day, sometimes after every feed
Breastfed babies typically have looser stools that may look seedy or resemble cottage cheese. It’s usually mild-smelling and may vary based on the mother’s diet.
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🍼 Formula-Fed Baby Poo
• Colour: Yellow, tan, or brown
• Consistency: Thicker and pastier, similar to peanut butter
• Frequency: 1-2 times per day
Formula-fed babies usually have more solid stools than breastfed babies, and their poo may have a stronger smell.
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What If My Baby’s Poo Changes Colour?
It’s normal for baby poo to change colour occasionally. However, some colours can signal an issue.
🚦 Normal Colours:
• Yellow, green, brown: All perfectly normal, especially if your baby is breastfed.
• Orange: May occur if your baby is eating solid foods with orange pigments.
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🚦 When to Be Concerned:
• White or Grey: Could indicate a liver issue — seek medical advice immediately.
• Red (Blood): May be due to a milk allergy, infection, or a small tear from straining. Contact your paediatrician if this occurs.
• Black (after the first few days): May indicate bleeding in the digestive tract. Seek urgent medical attention.
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How Often Should My Baby Poo?
Frequency varies depending on age, feeding method, and diet.
• Newborns: Several times a day, especially breastfed babies.
• Infants (2-6 months): 1-2 times a day for formula-fed; breastfed babies may go days without pooing — that’s normal.
• Older Babies (Starting Solids): Typically 1-2 times per day, but it varies widely.
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What Causes Diarrhoea in Babies?
If your baby’s poo is suddenly very watery and more frequent, it may be diarrhoea. Common causes include:
1. Viral or Bacterial Infections: Such as rotavirus or foodborne illness.
2. Food Intolerances: New foods or reactions to formula.
3. Antibiotics: Medication can disrupt gut bacteria, leading to loose stools.
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When Should I Worry About Diarrhoea?
Contact a paediatrician if your baby:
• Has more than 6 watery stools a day.
• Shows signs of dehydration (dry mouth, no tears when crying, fewer wet nappies).
• Has diarrhoea lasting more than 24 hours.
• Develops a fever over 38°C (100.4°F).
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What Causes Constipation in Babies?
Constipation is more common in formula-fed babies and those starting solids. Signs include:
• Hard, dry stools
• Straining or discomfort during bowel movements
• Blood in the stool (from small tears due to straining)
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When Should I Worry About Constipation?
Consult a paediatrician if:
• Your baby has had no poo for more than 3 days.
• Stools are consistently hard and painful to pass.
• Your baby is vomiting or seems unusually distressed.
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How to Help Your Baby’s Digestion
You can help your baby’s digestion by:
• Feeding on demand (for breastfed babies).
• Ensuring adequate hydration (for formula-fed babies).
• Introducing high-fibre foods gradually when starting solids.
• Massaging your baby’s tummy gently to relieve discomfort.
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When to See a Paediatrician
If you’re concerned about your baby’s poo, whether it’s colour, consistency, frequency, or signs of diarrhoea or constipation, it’s always better to seek professional advice.
At Bright Futures Health, our trusted paediatricians can help you understand what’s normal and offer guidance on managing your baby’s digestion.
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Book an Appointment with Bright Futures Health
If you’re worried about your baby’s poo or want peace of mind, we’re here to help.
📞 Book an appointment with one of our paediatricians today at Bright Futures Health.
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Final Thoughts
Every baby is different, and their nappies will be too. Understanding what’s normal and what’s not can help ease your worries and ensure your baby stays healthy.
For trusted advice and expert guidance, visit Bright Futures Health — your partner in raising healthy, happy children.
