All you need to know about newborn and Infant stools

Parents, especially those who have just welcomed a newborn, are often concerned about their baby’s stools. From frequency to color and consistency, every detail can raise questions. At the Centre Pédiatrique de Bonapriso, we support parents through this delicate stage of their child’s life. Here are some key points to know about newborn and infant stools.

Dr Chokoteu Yossa D.

10/13/20242 min read

1- The first stools: meconium

Your baby’s first stools are called meconium, typically appearing within 24 to 48 hours after birth. Meconium is thick, sticky, and black-green in color. It consists of everything the baby ingested in the womb, including amniotic fluid. Though its appearance may seem surprising, it is completely normal.

2- Transitional stools

After meconium, transitional stools appear. These stools are more liquid, greenish-brown, and change daily. They represent the transition from meconium to milk-fed stools.

3- Stools of breastfed babies

Breastfed babies' stools have distinct characteristics:

  • Color: Golden yellow or mustard-like.

  • Consistency: Soft or liquid, sometimes resembling puree or curdled milk (similar to "pistachio" paste due to partial milk digestion).

  • Frequency: Varies from several times a day to once every 2-3 days.

Breastfed stools can also have a slightly grainy texture, which is normal and not a cause for concern.

Unfortunately, in some African cultures, including Cameroon, this grainy or curdled milk-like stool (referred to as “pistachio” stools, similar to a local dish) is mistakenly believed to be a fungal infection, leading to the inappropriate use of fungicides.

4- Stools of formula-fed babies

Formula-fed babies’ stools differ from those of breastfed babies:

  • Color: Light brown to yellowish-brown.

  • Consistency: Thicker, similar to peanut butter.

  • Frequency: Often one or two bowel movements per day.

Formula-fed babies generally have more odorous and less frequent stools than breastfed babies.

5- Changes to monitor

While variations in infant stools are normal, some changes may indicate a problem:

  • Hard or constipated stools: If your baby struggles to pass stools or cries during bowel movements, it could be a sign of constipation.

  • Very liquid and frequent stools: Sudden onset of watery stools may indicate diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration, especially in newborns.

  • Presence of blood or mucus: Blood traces or excess mucus may signal irritation, infection, or a food allergy—consult your pediatrician promptly.

  • Sudden change in color: White, black (after meconium), or bright red stools require immediate medical attention.

6- When to consult a pediatrician?

If you have concerns about your baby’s stools, it’s always best to consult a pediatrician. At the Centre Pédiatrique de Bonapriso, our doctors are available to assess your child’s digestive health and answer your questions. We also offer pediatric consultations to support your child’s development every step of the way.

7- Tips for parents

  • Keep a stool diary: Especially during the first few weeks, tracking your baby’s bowel movements can be helpful during medical visits.

  • Avoid self-medication: Resist the temptation to medicate your baby based on family advice or pressure.

  • Remember that every baby is unique: What is normal for one baby may not be the same for another.

Feel free to contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment online through our platform.

By understanding your baby’s stools and knowing what to expect, you can approach this phase with confidence and peace of mind. The Centre Pédiatrique de Bonapriso is here to assist you at every step, ensuring the well-being of your child.