Baby Stool Status Checker: Check Health Status by Stool Color
Checking Baby Health Through Stools
Baby's stool color, consistency, and frequency are important indicators of health status. From newborn meconium to normal stools of breastfed and formula-fed babies, colors and textures differ, and early detection of abnormal signs allows for appropriate response.
Normal Stool Colors by Age
- Newborn (0-3 days): Greenish-black meconium (sticky and odorless)
- Breastfed babies: Bright yellow, mustard color, soft and loose
- Formula-fed babies: Yellowish-brown, brown, loose peanut butter texture
- After starting solids: Brown, varies with food color
Stool Colors Requiring Attention
- Red: Suspected bloody stool, visit hospital immediately
- Black: Possible upper gastrointestinal bleeding (except meconium)
- White/Grayish: Liver or bile duct problem, urgent medical care needed
- Green: Mostly normal but consult pediatrician if persistent
Constipation and Diarrhea
Constipation is when there is no bowel movement for 3 days or more, or when passing hard stools. Water intake, tummy massage, and fiber intake help. Diarrhea is when passing watery stools 5 or more times per day, and preventing dehydration is important. If persistent, pediatric care is needed.