Bowel Habits & Constipation In Babies

Key points about bowel habits and constipation in babies

• bowel habits vary between pēpi (babies) and can change as your baby grows
• soft poo is not constipation, even if your baby does not poo every day
• constipation causes poo that’s hard, dry and difficult or painful to pass
• talk to a health professional if you are worried about your baby’s poo or bowel habits

Bowel habits vary between babies

Poo is also known as a bowel motion, bowel movement or stool.

Every baby has different bowel habits. The colour, firmness, smell and frequency of their poo can vary.

If your baby is feeding well, gaining weight and passing soft poo, there’s usually no need to worry.

Some pēpi poo after every feed. Others may go several days between poos. The frequency and firmness of your baby's poo are only a concern if they cause problems. 

Newborn babies pass meconium

During the first few days after birth, your baby will pass sticky, dark green poo. This is called meconium.

Their poo will gradually become lighter and thinner. This is called transitional poo.

Poo in babies fed breastmilk

Pēpi fed breastmilk may poo after every feed or more often.

Pēpi under 6 weeks old usually poo every day. Talk to a health professional if your baby is not pooing regularly, especially if they are not feeding well or gaining weight.

After 6 weeks, some pēpi fed breastmilk may go 7 to 10 days between poos. This can be normal if:

• the poo is soft
• your baby is feeding well
• your baby has frequent wet nappies
• your baby is settled between feeds
• your baby is not showing signs of pain or discomfort

Poo from a baby fed breastmilk is usually yellow or greenish-yellow. It’s often soft and may look seedy or contain small white grains.

Poo in formula-fed babies

Poo from a formula-fed baby is usually firmer and stronger-smelling than poo from a baby fed breastmilk. It may be yellow, green, brown or a mixture of these colours.

Formula containing iron may make your baby’s poo dark green. This is usually normal.

Always prepare formula exactly as directed on the packet. Add the correct amount of water before adding the formula powder.

How To Make Baby's Formula

Poo changes when babies start solids

Most pēpi are ready to start solids at around 6 months.

Offer a range of nutritious foods in a texture that is safe for your baby’s stage of development. If your baby was born early or has health concerns, ask your baby’s healthcare team when and how to start solids.

Your baby’s poo may change in colour, firmness, smell and frequency when they start eating different foods.

Starting Solids: How To Prepare Baby's Food

Signs and symptoms of constipation in babies

Constipation is when poo becomes hard, dry and difficult or painful to pass. Passing poo less often does not always mean your baby is constipated.

Signs of constipation can include:

• hard, dry or pebble-like poo
• pain or crying when passing poo
• stomach cramps
• a firm or bloated-looking tummy
• a reduced appetite
• irritability
• bright red blood around the poo or your baby’s bottom

A small amount of bright red blood can come from a tiny tear in the skin around the anus. This is called an anal fissure.

See a health professional if you notice blood in your baby’s poo.

Causes of constipation in babies

In most pēpi with constipation, there is no serious underlying cause.

Constipation may be linked to:

• not getting enough fluid
• starting solids
• changing from breastmilk to formula
• preparing formula incorrectly
• fever or illness
• some medicines

Hot weather can increase the amount of fluid your baby loses through sweating.

Pēpi fed breastmilk don’t usually need extra water. They may need more frequent breastfeeds during hot weather. Talk to a health professional before giving your baby extra water or changing their feeds.

Gentle tummy massage or gently moving your baby’s legs in a cycling motion may help them pass poo.

When to get medical help

See a health professional urgently if your baby:

• does not pass meconium within the first 48 hours after birth
• has a swollen tummy
• has ongoing vomiting or green vomit
• is feeding poorly or seems unwell
• is not gaining weight
• has blood in their poo
• has hard or painful poo, especially if they are under 6 weeks old

Talk to your baby’s healthcare team if you’re unsure whether your baby’s bowel habits are normal.