Stools

Information to which special attention should be paidSee your doctor if your baby’s stools are red or black because this may indicate blood. If the baby’s stool is discoloured (white, grey, or beige), consult a physician promptly because it could be a sign of a serious liver problem.

During the first 2 or 3 days, your baby will eliminate the residue remaining in his intestines from before he was born. The stools will be very dark and sticky: this is meconium.

Afterwards, the stools will be yellowish, greenish or brownish.

If your baby is drinking enough (see Is your baby drinking enough milk?), his stools will be liquid or very soft.

During the first 4 to 6 weeks, your baby may have 3 to 10 bowel movements per day. If your baby doesn’t have at least one bowel movement per day, he might not be drinking enough.

After 4 to 6 weeks, some babies fed with breast milk will have fewer bowel movements even if they are drinking enough (e.g., one bowel movement every 3 to 7 days). If your baby is defecating infrequently but the stools remain soft, it is not a problem.

During the first year, the frequency, consistency, and colour of the stools will vary depending on what your baby is fed. You will gradually learn to recognize your child’s normal stools.

If your baby’s stools suddenly become more liquid than usual, it may be a sign of a transient trouble (see Diarrhea). If your baby is healthy, continue to feed him normally. If you think he is sick, call Info-Santé (8-1-1) or consult a health professional.