Your baby: Stools and bowel movements

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

• 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.

How often to change your baby's diapers

Usually, you should change your baby's diaper when he eats. If your baby's diaper is wet or soiled between feedings, change it as soon as possible.

Gently wash your baby's buttocks and genital area with a diaper wipe or a soft cloth and lukewarm water. You may use a mild soap, but avoid unneeded chemicals. Wipe from the front to the back.

Wash your hands before and after changing your baby's diaper.

How to prevent and treat diaper rash

• Change the diaper often.
• Wash your baby's buttocks with warm water and mild soap after each bowel movement or at least two to three times each day. Dry the buttocks well.
• Take the diaper off for about 10 minutes several times a day. The air will help keep the buttocks dry.
• Treat the diaper rash:

Warning

If you see blood in your baby's stools, call your baby's health care provider

• You may use ointments such as zinc oxide, A&D®, Desitin®, Diaparene® or Triple Paste® on your baby's buttocks after washing them. You may buy these products at your pharmacy. Follow the package directions.
• Do not use rubber pants. Try to use newer pants that “breathe” over cloth diapers.
• Add one-half cup of vinegar to the water in the cloth diaper pail and soak the diapers. Rinse them once before washing.
• To wash cloth diapers, use mild soap (such as Dreft® or Ivory Snow®) instead of a strong soap or detergent. Follow the package directions. Rinse the diapers two or three times.
• If you use disposable diapers, try to change brands or switch to cloth diapers. Some disposable diapers have powders, which can cause diaper rash.

Related Links

Is my baby eating enough?

Chart your baby's first feeding and diapers

First published: 04/01/2002
Last updated: 05/01/2008

Reviewed by: Allina Patient Education experts