Newborn babies typically have around 3 to 5 dirty nappies (bowel movements) per day during the first few weeks. In addition, they will usually have 6 or more wet nappies each day. The dirty nappies start with the first days showing meconium (dark, tarry stool), then transition to more yellowish, seedy poos a few days after birth. The frequency of dirty nappies can vary but generally, 3 to 5 soiled nappies per day is normal in the newborn phase. This number may decrease as the baby grows older and feeding changes. In summary:
- Newborns have about 3 to 5 dirty nappies a day in the first weeks.
- They also have about 6 to 10 wet nappies daily.
- The total diaper changes per day can be around 8 to 10 or more, depending on wetness and pooping frequency.
This information helps ensure the baby is feeding well and hydrated and prevents diaper rash by timely changes.