Newborn poop frequency varies widely and depends on factors like whether the baby is breastfed or formula-fed.
- Breastfed newborns often poop more frequently, sometimes after every feeding. In the first days, they typically have at least one bowel movement per day, increasing to about five times a day by around day five. After about six weeks, some breastfed babies may poop less often, sometimes going several days without a bowel movement, which is normal as long as the stool remains soft and the baby is feeding well and gaining weight
- Formula-fed newborns usually poop less frequently than breastfed babies, often three to four times a day initially, but some may go up to three or four days without pooping. Their stool tends to be firmer, darker, and smellier. After about six weeks, formula-fed babies often settle to about one bowel movement per day
- It is normal for newborns to have anywhere from multiple poops per day to a few days between poops. However, if a baby goes more than about 4 days (breastfed) or a week (any baby) without pooping, or if the stool is hard and the baby seems uncomfortable, you should contact a pediatrician
In summary, newborns can poop anywhere from several times a day to once every few days. The key signs of normal bowel habits are soft stools, regular feeding, and good weight gain. If your baby’s poop pattern changes drastically or they go a week or more without pooping, consult your pediatrician.
