Newborns typically have bowel movements quite frequently in the first weeks of life, but the exact frequency can vary widely among babies.
- Many newborns have at least 1 to 2 bowel movements per day initially. By the end of the first week, some babies may have as many as 5 to 10 bowel movements daily, often passing stool after each feeding
- Breastfed babies tend to poop more often than formula-fed babies. Breastfed newborns may poop several times a day (sometimes after every feed), with stools that are soft and seedy. Formula-fed babies usually poop fewer times, about 1 to 4 times per day, and their stools tend to be firmer and darker
- After about 6 weeks of age, the frequency of bowel movements usually decreases. Some babies may poop once a day, while others may go several days without a bowel movement, especially breastfed infants. This is generally normal as long as the baby is healthy, feeding well, and the stools are soft
- It is important that newborns pass their first stool (meconium) within the first 24 to 48 hours after birth. This first stool is dark and tar-like. Subsequent stools transition to yellow or greenish colors depending on diet
In summary, newborns can poop anywhere from multiple times a day (up to 10 times) in the first week to as infrequently as every few days after 6 weeks, with normal variation depending on feeding method and individual differences. Monitoring stool frequency along with stool consistency and the baby's overall well-being is key to ensuring normal digestive health
