Baby Poop Colors & What They Mean (PHOTOS)
Sometimes, poop isn't just poop. When babies are really little, stools are an obsession. Moms, in an effort to determine if their baby is eating enough (particularly a mystery for breastfeeders who can't measure their infant's intake), often track the number of soiled diapers per day -- it's akin to a full-time job. And until you have a baby, who even knew there were so many colors and textures and types of excrement? No wonder it can cause so much anxiety. To help you separate the true potential health problems from what's completely normal, we've put together a color-coded baby poop decoder (and don't worry, these photos won't make you gag). Whatever's going on down there in diaperville, we've got answers and advice on what to do if you do spot something worth worrying about.
Have you noted any odd colors in your baby's diaper?
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Yellow
Breastfed baby poop should be like a "seedy mustard," says lactation consultant Leigh Anne O'Connor. So if that's what you see, you're all good.
Red
Red stool may come from certain medications or food dyes, but if it's a deep red that looks like blood, it could be more serious. "This can suggest an intolerance to the milk that the baby is consuming, such as a cow's milk or soy protein allergy," says Woods. "Parents noticing blood within their child's stool should consult with the pediatrician, where he or she may recommend a special formula, such as a partially digested or elemental formula."