You may find yourself wondering about your baby’s poos and what is normal. Your baby’s poo is a good health indicator and there are things you can look out for to make sure it’s normal.
Breastfed babies’ bowel motions
Breastfed babies poo at least once a day until around 4 weeks of age.
After this time some babies do poos at every feed, others only every 7–10 days. It’s normal for babies to suddenly change their pattern.
Breastfed babies’ poos are often runny with small lumps.
Formula-fed babies’ bowel motions
Formula-fed babies usually poo every day or every second day. They tend to have firmer poos. Check you are making up the formula with the correct amount of water for the amount of powder you are using. Not enough water makes the formula too strong and can cause constipation.
Colour
The colour of poo can vary from yellow to green to brown.
Green poos are common in a well baby. However, sometimes the green colour may be caused by a feeding problem or illness. If you are worried, talk to your lead maternity carer, Well Child nurse or general practitioner (GP).
If your baby’s poos are white or cream coloured, talk to your GP.
Constipation
A baby’s poos should be soft. When your baby is constipated, their poos are hard and difficult to pass. If you’re worried your baby is constipated, visit Constipation for more information.
Wash your hands after changing nappies
Always wash your hands after changing your baby’s nappies, to prevent infection.
