Newborn Basics

Understanding Newborn Poop & Diapers

The Basics

Newborn diapers change quickly week by week. Paying attention to Noah's diapers helps Abby track hydration, feeding, and digestion. Everything he produces is normal for where he is developmentally—even if it sometimes looks surprising.

 

What to Expect in the First Weeks

1. Meconium (Days 1-3)

  • Thick, black, tar-like
  • Completely normal
  • Shows Noah's bowels are starting to work

2. Transition Stools (Days 3-5)

  • Greenish-brown
  • Softer
  • Moving toward normal breastmilk stools

3. Breastfed Poop (After Day 5)

  • Mustardy yellow
  • Seedy or loose
  • Sometimes several diapers a day

Formula-fed babies may have:

  • Softer tan or yellow stools
  • Slightly firmer consistency

Both are healthy.

 

How Often Should Noah Poop?

Every baby is different, but general patterns:

  • Early weeks: 2-5+ stools per day
  • Around 3-4 weeks: may slow to once a day—or even skip days

As long as stool is soft and Noah is comfortable, variations are normal.

 

Wet Diapers

A healthy newborn typically has:

  • 1-2 wet diapers in the first 24 hours
  • 5-6+ wet diapers per day by the end of the first week

Good wet diapers mean Noah is feeding well.

 

When to Call the Pediatrician

  • Hard, pebble-like stools
  • Stool that is white or red
  • Very watery diarrhea
  • No wet diapers for 8+ hours
  • Noah seems in pain while passing stool

These are uncommon but worth contacting the doctor for.

 

Encouragement for Abby

Diaper changes might feel constant now, but every one is proof that Noah is growing, eating, and staying hydrated. Abby is already gently caring for his needs with so much love and attention—he feels that security every time she picks him up.

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