How to Know If Your Baby’s Poop Is Healthy

A quick check of your baby's poop for frequency, consistency, and color can tell you if you need a trip to the doctor.

: Wash your hands after changing a diaper to avoid spreading germs.
Step 1: Pooping frequency Keep an eye on how frequently your baby poops. If that pattern changes for more than a couple of days, call your doctor.
TIP: Most babies’ bowel movements regulate in the first month or two.
Step 2: Check poop consistency Check the consistency. Runny diapers that continue for 2 or 3 days could mean an infection or allergy and a hard stool could indicate constipation.
Step 3: Check poop color Take note of the color of your baby's poop, which may be affected by what your baby is eating and how well they are digesting.
Step 4: Contact doctor Call your doctor if your baby's stool is black and tar-like, is bloody, or is white and chalky.
FACT: At first, breast-fed babies may poop up to10 times a day.