Your baby's stools or bowel movements

During the first three days or so after your baby is born, he or she will pass black, tarry stools (meconium). This is normal. The stools will slowly become lighter in color, less sticky and become more liquid in form.

• If you breastfeed your baby, the stools will be green-yellow to mustard-yellow, seedy and liquid. If you are only breastfeeding (your baby receives no supplemental feedings), frequent and liquid stools are not a concern or a sign of diarrhea.
• If you formula feed your baby, the stools will be darker, more solid and have a stronger smell. Your baby will have fewer stools, and they will be larger than those of a breastfed baby.

When to call your health care provider

Call your health care provider if you see blood in your baby's stools.

Related Links

Chart your baby's first feeding and diapers (requires Adobe Reader)

Is my baby eating enough?

Your baby

First published: 04/01/2002
Last updated: 11/30/2006

Reviewed by: Allina Patient Education experts